Choice of optimal oviposition sites by Hoplobatrachus occipitalis (Anura: Ranidae) in an unpredictable and patchy environment |
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Authors: | M Spieler K E Linsenmair |
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Institution: | Theodor-Boveri-Institut für Biowissenschaften der Universit?t, Tier?kologie und Tropenbiologie, Am Hubland, D-97074 Würzburg, Germany fax: 0931-888-4352, DE
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Abstract: | The rock pools on the river bank of the Comoé National Park (West Africa) provide a very diverse and unpredictable environment
for anuran larval development. Because rock pools differ considerably in biotic and abiotic parameters, it should be adaptive
for reproducing anurans to choose the most suitable oviposition sites. During the beginning of each rainy season (March to
May), from 1991 to 1995, we investigated the allocation of breeding sites by Hoplobatrachus occipitalis, counted the number of eggs, and measured several biotic and abiotic factors that might influence the choice of a spawning
site. The probability of predation by conspecific cannibalistic tadpoles and the water-holding capacity (WHC) of pools were
the best predictor of number of eggs laid. We experimentally investigated the influence of these two parameters on egg-laying
and showed that adults potentially can assess the presence, density, and size of tadpoles in pools by chemical cues. Likewise,
manipulation of the water-holding capacity caused a rapid change in egg-laying behavior. To assess the risk of desiccation,
frogs have to visit familiar pools repeatedly to monitor the decrease in volume over time and thus gain information about
the pools’ water-holding capacity.
Received: 22 April 1996 / Accepted: 17 July 1996 |
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Keywords: | Hoplobatrachus occipitalis Amphibian Oviposition site choice Predation Desiccation |
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