ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the status of geographically isolated wetlands (GIWs) within the southeastern United States in light of the extensive loss of longleaf pine forests. It reviews the geology, hydrology, soils, vegetation, and biogeochemistry of GIWs within longleaf pine forests and describes the influence of these factors on patterns of biodiversity. The chapter provides examples of the relevant types of habitat connectivity for amphibians, reptiles, and the other groups that are unique to GIWs in longleaf pine. It focuses largely on amphibians because their complex habitat requirements present unique challenges for restoration of longleaf pine forests and embedded GIWs. The chapter summarizes the challenges of restoring GIW-dependent wildlife within altered landscapes, and presents examples of several GIW restoration projects. It identifies management and conservation challenges presented by climate change predictions, and concludes with a discussion of future research needs.
