Circannual rhythms in the activity of the parathyroid gland and ultimobranchial body cells of the frog Rana temporaria (Anura, Amphibia)

The annual activity of the parathyroid gland cells and those of the ultimobranchial body cells of the frog Rana temporaria is quantitatively investigated by a morphometric study. A cosinor analysis shows a periodic succession of different parameters. The secretory activity of the parathyroid cells starts after a maximal value of external temperature in July. This activity is followed by an increase of plasma calcium which seems to induce the activity of the ultimobranchial cells.