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Mesozoic fossils of frogs are rare in the palaeontological record, particularly those exhibiting soft tissues that offer limited insights into early life-history characteristics. Here we report on a skeletally immature frog from the Lower Cretaceous of northwest China, with egg masses in the body and eggs in the oviduct, indicative of a gravid female. CT reconstruction of the specimen allows referral to Gansubatrachus qilianensis and we assign it as a paratype complementing the diagnosis of the type species. The new fossil, which might represent a younger individual than the holotype of Gansubatrachus, shows that sexual maturation occurred before full adulthood in this frog and provides evidence of death linked to mating behaviour. We also discuss other potential sources of variation and life-history traits of Gansubatrachus. The new finding represents the oldest Early Cretaceous frog preserving in situ eggs and provides a glimpse into ancient anuran development during Mesozoic times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The frog genus Odorrana is distributed across east and southeastern Asia. Based on morphological differences and molecular phylogenetics, a new species of the genus occurring from Leigong Mountain in Guizhou Province, China is described. Phylogenetic analyses based on DNA sequences of the mitochondrial 12S rRNA, 16S rRNA, and ND2 genes supported the new species as an independent lineage. The uncorrected genetic distances between the 12S rRNA, 16S rRNA, and ND2 genes between the new species and its closest congener were 5.0%, 4.9%, and 16.3%, respectively. The new species is distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: body size moderate (SVL 39.1–49.4 mm in males, 49.7 mm in female); head width larger than head length; tympanum distinctly visible; small rounded granules scattered all over dorsal body and limbs; dorsolateral folds absent; heels overlapping when thighs are positioned at right angles to the body; tibiotarsal articulation reaching the level between eye to nostril when leg stretched forward; vocal sacs absent in male and nuptial pads present on the base of finger I. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Torrent frogs of the genus Amolops are widely distributed in Nepal and northern India eastwards to southern China and southwards to Malaysia. The genus currently contains 84 species. Previous studies indicated underestimated species diversity in the genus. In the context, a new species occurring from the mountains in the northwestern Guizhou Province, China is found and described based on morphological comparisons and molecular phylogenetic analyses, Amolops dafangensis sp. nov. Phylogenetic analyses based on DNA sequences of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA and COI genes supported the new species as an independent lineage. The uncorrected genetic distances between the 16S rRNA and COI genes in the new species and its closest congener were 0.7% and 2.6%, respectively, which are higher than or at the same level as those among many pairs of congeners. Morphologically, the new species can be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: body size moderate (SVL 43.2-46.8 mm in males); head length larger than head width slightly; tympanum distinct, oval; vocal sacs absent; vomerine teeth present; dorsolateral folds weak formed by series of glands; nuptial pads present on the base of finger I; heels overlapping when thighs are positioned at right angles to the body; tibiotarsal articulation reaching the level far beyond the tip of the snout when leg stretched forward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) of Boulenophrys baishanzuensis (Anura: Megophryidae) was sequenced by the Illumina platform. The assembled circular mitogenome of B. baishanzuensis had a total length of 17,040 bp, with a GC content of 41.25%. It consisted of 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), two rRNA genes, 22 tRNA genes, and a D-loop region. The majority of the PCGs were encoded by the H-strand, while one PCG (nad6) and eight tRNA genes (tRNA-Gln, tRNA-Ala, tRNA-Asn, tRNA-Cys, tRNA-Tyr, tRNA-Ser2, tRNA-Glu, and tRNA-Pro) were encoded in the L-strand. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the newly sequenced species formed a clade with other Boulenophrys species, while the genus Boulenophrys itself formed a sister group with the genus Atympanophrys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asian warty treefrogs, genus Theloderma, are morphologically variable arboreal frogs endemic to Southeast Asia and Southern China. However, integrated systematic studies are lacking, and knowledge of the genus in terms of diversity, origin, and historical diversification remains limited. To address these knowledge gaps, we used three mitochondrial and five nuclear gene fragments to reconstruct the Theloderma phylogeny, estimate divergence times, and examine the biogeography of the genus. Phylogenetic and species delimitation analyses suggest that the genus Theloderma comprises three major clades corresponding to two subgenera and seven species groups, and mPTP identified at least 12 putative cryptic species, suggesting that species diversity has been underestimated. Biogeographic analyses indicated that most recent common ancestor of Theloderma originated in the Indochina Peninsula during the Middle Oligocene (ca. 27.77 Ma) and the splitting of Clade A to C occurred in the Late Oligocene (ca. 23.55–25.57 Ma). Current biogeographic patterns result from two distinct processes: in situ diversification in the Indochina Peninsula and dispersal in multiple areas, namely southward dispersal to the Malay Peninsula and Borneo, northeastward dispersal to Southern China, northward dispersal to the Himalayas, and dispersal from Southern China to the Indochina Peninsula. Ancestral character reconstruction suggests that the ancestor of Theloderma may have possessed a small body size, rough dorsal skin, and absence of vomerine teeth and hand webbing, and that these four characters have undergone multiple evolutions. Principal component analysis based on eight bioclimatic variables did not clearly distinguish the three major clades of Theloderma, suggesting that species in these clades may occupy similar climatic ecological niches. Our research highlights the importance of orogeny and paleoclimatic changes, in shaping amphibian biodiversity in mountain ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on a well-preserved incomplete skeleton, a new frog, Gansubatrachus qilianensis gen. et sp. nov., is described from the Lower Cretaceous Zhonggou Formation of Jiuquan Basin, Gansu Province, north-western China. This species differs from other frogs in a unique combination of characteristics, such as a robust and non-bifurcated alary process on the premaxilla, a 'V'-shaped parahyoid, a paired sphenethmoid, eight presacral vertebrae, three pairs of free ribs, and unexpanded sacral diapophyses. Phylogenetic analysis based on parsimony suggests that Gansubatrachus is a basal Lalagobatrachia. This discovery of a new frog fossil from the Early Cretaceous of north-west China expands the diversity of fossil frogs in East Asia and provides new material for further studies on the distribution and evolutionary history of Cretaceous Asian anurans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The Nidirana Dubois, 1992 exhibit a ubiquitous presence in East and Southeast Asia, spanning from Japan west to southern China and from northern Thailand to northern Vietnam and Laos in the south. The taxonomic categorisations pertaining to this genus continue to be a subject of debate, particularly with regard to those species that possess broad geographical distributions. In China, 18 species of Nidirana are currently recognised. New information We describe a new species of this genus from south-western China. Mitochondrial 16S and COI gene phylogenetic analyses support the new species as an independent clade nested within the Nidirana. The new species is phylogenetically close to N. yaoica, with a genetic distance of 2.5% from its sister taxon. Morphologically, the new species can be distinguished from congeners by a combination of the following characteristics: males relatively small (SVL 41.8-43.3 mm); lateroventral grooves present on both fingers and toes; relative finger length II < I < IV < III; tibio-tarsal articulation reaching to the level of the eye or nostril; a pair of external subgular vocal sacs in males; one single nuptial pad on the dorsal surface of the base of the first finger in males during the breeding season; webbing formula I 1/2 - 1 II 1/2 - 2 III 1 - 2 1/2 IV 2 - 1V. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The subfamily Megophryinae, as a representative batrachian group of the Oriental Realm and one of the most diverse groups of amphibians, has attracted considerable attention due to continued conjecture regarding its generic classification and failure to reach a satisfactory consensus. China boasts the richest diversity of Asian horned toads, containing some two thirds of the total species cataloged. However, most species have a complicated taxonomic history, resulting in multiple misidentifications. As such, an overall clarification of historical records and regional checklists is required. In the current investigation, we established the phylogeny of the Asian horned toads and performed detailed examinations with redefinitions of several important morphological traits. Based on the phylogenetic relationships and morphological differences, we propose a new ten-genus classification for the Asian horned toad subfamily Megophryinae: i.e., Brachytarsophrys, Atympanophrys, Grillitschia, Sarawakiphrys gen. nov., Jingophrys gen. nov., Xenophrys, Megophrys, Pelobatrachus, Ophryophryne, and Boulenophrys. Revisions on the diagnosability, distribution, and content of each genus are provided. Furthermore, we present a careful review of the taxonomic history of Asian horned toad species from China and provide a monograph of congeners, including six species of Brachytarsophrys, four species of Atympanophrys, five species of Jingophrys gen. nov., 10 species of Xenophrys, two species of Ophryophryne, and 60 species of Boulenophrys. Finally, we discuss the importance of traditional morphological traits based on multiple populations in taxonomic work as well as taxonomic inflation caused by the genetic species delimitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of the Asian leaf litter toad genus Leptobrachella from central south China is described. Molecular phylogenetic analyses, based on mitochondrial 16S rRNA and nuclear RAG1 gene sequences indicated the new species as an independent clade in the genus. The new species could be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: body of medium size (SVL 29.2–34.2 mm in 15 adult males and 34.4–43.1 mm in seven adult females); distinct black spots present on flanks; toes rudimentary webbed, with wide lateral fringes; ventral belly white with distinct nebulous brown speckling on ventrolateral flanks; skin on dorsum shagreened with fine tiny granules or short ridges; iris copper above, silver below; heels overlapped when thighs are positioned at right angles to the body; tibia-tarsal articulation reaches the middle eye; dorsal surface of tadpole semi-transparent light brown, spots on tail absent, keratodont row formula I: 3+3/2+2: I; call series basically consist of repeated long calls, at dominant frequency (5093 ± 412 Hz). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sympatric distribution and potentially long larval development time make the assignment of tadpoles confusing in Asian-horned frogs of the subfamily Megophryinae. In this study, we used molecular data to identify four syntopic megophryinid tadpoles from Mangshan on the border between Hunan and Guangdong provinces in southern China: Brachytarsophrys popei, Boulenophrys shimentaina, Bo. cf. ombrophila, and Bo. nanlingensis. A detailed re-description of the Br. popei tadpoles is provided as well as the first descriptions of three Boulenophrys tadpoles based on external morphology and coloration. An effort is attempted to distinguish these tadpoles by coloration patterns: the dorsal pattern, ventral pattern, and pattern on tail are useful for field identification of these tadpoles. However, the variation of color pattern could sometimes make species delineation difficult. Researchers are encouraged to document coloration in life with photographs and the collection of tadpoles of different development stages and sizes advocated in order to better understand how color may change during larval development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In China, new species of Microhylidae continue to be discovered at a rapid rate, often as a result of re-examining geographically widespread species populations using new molecular and bioacoustic tools. Here, we show that members of the genus Microhyla from the Dabie mountains in East China can be distinguished from morphologically similar species (M. beilunensis, M. fanjinshanensis and M. mixtura) with the analysis of phylogeny, species delimitation, bioacoustics and morphology. Based on the above multiple lines of evidence, we describe the population of the Dabie Mountains as a new species, Microhyla dabieshanensis sp. nov. This study enriches the diversity of Microhylidae, and clarifies the species of the genus Microhyla in the Dabie Mountains. Microhyla dabieshanensis sp. nov. is distributed in the Dabie Mountains above 500 m above sea level, and in some areas has sympatric distribution with M. fissipes and M. heymonsi. Species belonging to the genus Microhyla are small-sized frogs that are widely distributed in southern, eastern, and south-eastern Asia. In China, the genus harbors many cryptic species, on two of which—M. beilunensis and M. fanjinshanensis—studies were recently published. In this study, we collected specimens from the Dabie Mountain range, which is at the junction of Anhui, Henan and Hubei Provinces, East China; these specimens belonged to a species previously identified as M. mixtura. Based on phylogenetic analyses, species delimitation analyses, morphological comparisons and advertisement calls comparisons, we found they were significantly different from other known congeners, and thus we describe them as a new species. This study enriches the diversity of Microhylidae, and clarifies the species of the genus Microhyla in the Dabie Mountains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on morphological and molecular evidence of five male adult specimens collected from Napo County, Baise City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, we describe a new species of Rhacophorus, Rhacophorus napoensis sp. nov. This new species is similar to Rhacophorus rhodopus Liu & Hu, 1959 and Rhacophorus bipunctatus Ahl, 1927 in morphology, but it can be distinguished from the latter two by the following morphological characteristics: head width is greater than head length, snout pointed, loreal region oblique, tympanum distinct, maxillary teeth distinct, tongue cordiform, external single subgular vocal sac, tibiotarsal articulation reaches the snout, tibia length is greater than foot length and slightly greater than half of snout-vent length, and single outer metatarsal tubercle is flat. The phylogenetic tree constructed based on 16S rRNA sequence shows that all individuals of this species clustered into the same clade, and genetically this new species differs from R. rhodopus and R. bipunctatus by 7.71% and 7.98% in 16S rRNA sequences, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of Leaf Litter Toad, Leptobrachella shimentaina sp. nov., is described from the Shimentai and Luokeng nature reserves of northern Guangdong Province, southern China. The new taxon can be distinguished from all recognized congeners by a combination of discrete morphological character state differences relating to its small body size (SVL 26.4--28.9 mm in six adult males, 30.1 and 30.7 mm in two adult females); a number of apparently fixed color pattern character differences (including eye coloration and color pattern features from dorsal, ventral, and dorsolateral surfaces of its head, body, limbs, and ventrum); the morphological and discrete characteristics of the external phenotype (the skin texture of dorsum and ventrum, the presence of supra-axillary and ventrolateral glands, the wide dermal fringes and rudimentary webbing on toes, and the uninterrupted longitudinal ridges under toes). Two samples of this new species previously were proposed as representing a new, unnamed species. We now substantiate this claim by providing diagnostic comparisons of discrete character differences. In addition, we also discuss taxonomic uncertainty surrounding the identity of two congeners, L. chishuiensis and L. purpurus, which we interpret as indicative of taxonomic inflation in the species-rich subfamily Megophryidae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the first country record of Theloderma khoii Ninh, Nguyen, Nguyen, Hoang, Siliyavong, Nguyen, Le, Le & Ziegler, 2022 from China based on a specimen collected from Wenshan Prefecture, southeastern Yunnan, China. Morphologically, the specimen from Wenshan Prefecture agrees well with the type specimens of T. khoii from Vietnam except for having a smaller body size, and phylogenetically clustered with the type specimens of T. khoii from Vietnam. In addition, we confirm the distribution of Rhacophorus orlovi Ziegler & Köhler, 2001 in China based on three specimens collected from Honghe Prefecture, southern Yunnan, China. Morphologically, the specimens from Honghe Prefecture agree well with the type specimens of R. orlovi from Vietnam except for having a slightly larger body size in adult females, and phylogenetically clustered with the specimens of R. orlovi from Vietnam (including the type locality of R. orlovi). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article describes a new Leptobrachella damingshanensis anuran species from central Guangxi, China based on morphological, molecular and acoustic data. Topics include the result of a phylogenetic analyses of the species using 16S rRNA gene fragment, a combination of characters in which the species differs from all known congeners, and a list of species included in the genus Leptobrachella found on the islands of Southeast Asia to the eastern Himalayas.

Nidirana guangxiensis sp. nov., a new music frog species, is proposed, based on a series of specimens collected from Mt Daming, Guangxi, southern China. The new species is close to N. yeae, N. daunchina, N. yaoica, and N. chapaensis from southwestern and south-central China and northern Indochina, while the relationships among these species remain unresolved. Nidirana guangxiensis sp. nov. can be distinguished from all known congeners by the genetic divergences in the mitochondrial 16S and COI genes, the behavior of nest construction, the advertisement call containing 6-11 rapidly repeated regular notes, and a combination of morphological characteristics. Furthermore, the Nidirana populations recorded in Guangxi are clarified in this work, providing valuable new information on the knowledge of the genus Nidirana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The studies of climatic‐niche shifts over evolutionary time accompanied by key morphological innovations have attracted the interest of many researchers recently. We applied ecological niche models (ENMs), ordination method (environment principal component analyses; PCA‐env), combined phylogenetic comparative methods (PCMs), and phylogenetic generalized least squares (PGLS) regression methods to analyze the realized niche dynamics and correspondingly key morphological innovations across clades within Scutiger boulengeri throughout their distributions in Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (QTP) margins of China. Our results show there are six clades in S. boulengeri and obvious niche divergences caused by niche expansion in three clades. Moreover, in our system, niche expansion is more popular than niche unfilling into novel environmental conditions. Annual mean temperature, annual precipitation, and precipitation of driest month may contribute to such a shift. In addition, we identified several key climatic factors and morphological traits that tend to be associated with niche expansion in S. boulengeri clades correspondingly. We found phenotypic plasticity [i.e., length of lower arm and hand (LAHL), hind‐limb length (HLL), and foot length (FL)] and evolutionary changes [i.e., snout–vent length (SVL)] may together contribute to niche expansion toward adapting novel niche, which provides us a potential pattern of how a colonizing toad might seed a novel habitat to begin the process of speciation and finally adaptive radiation. For these reasons, persistent phylogeographic divisions and accompanying divergences in niche occupancy and morphological adaption suggest that for future studies, distinct genetic structure and morphological changes corresponding to each genetic clade should be included in modeling niche evolution dynamics, but not just constructed at the species level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we describe Panophrys congjiangensis sp. nov. obtained from the Yueliangshan Nature Reserve, Congjiang County, Guizhou Province, China. Phylogenetic analyses based on the mitochondrial genes 16S rRNA and COI indicated that this new species represented an independent lineage, closely related to P. leishanensis. The uncorrected genetic distances between the new species and its closest congener, P. leishanensis, were 3.0% for 16S rRNA and 8.4% for COI. The new species is distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following morphological characteristics (1) medium body size (SVL 28.6-33.4 mm in males and 38.4-40.2 mm in females); (2) a small horn-like tubercle at the edge of each upper eyelid; (3) the tympanum distinctly visible (TD/ED ratio 0.47-0.66); (4) vomerine teeth absent; (5) the tongue not notched behind; (6) a narrow and unobvious lateral fringe on toes; (7) relative finger lengths II < I < V < III; (8) rudimentary webs on toes; (9) hindlimbs slender, heels overlapping when thighs are positioned at right angles to the body; (10) two metacarpal tubercles on the palm, with the inner metatarsal tubercle long and oval-shaped; (11) the tibiotarsal articulation reaching the nostril when the leg is adpressed and stretched forward; (12) dorsal skin rough with numerous orange-red granules, ventral surface smooth; (13) a single internal subgular vocal sac present in males; and (14) in breeding males, weak gray-black nuptial pads with black nuptial spines present on the dorsal surface of the bases of the first and second fingers. To date, the new species is only known from the type locality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A correction is presented to article, "A cretaceous frog with eggs from northwestern China provides fossil evidence for sexual maturity preceding skeletal maturity in anurans," published in the previous issue of the periodical.

A new species, Odorrana sangzhiensis sp. nov., is described, based on five specimens from Sangzhi County, Zhangjiajie City, Hunan Province, China. Molecular phylogenetic analyses, based on mitochondrial 12S rRNA and 16S rRNA gene sequences, strongly support the new species as a monophyletic group nested into the O. schmackeri species complex. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: (1) body size medium (SVL: 42.1-45.1 mm in males, 83.3-92.7 mm in females); (2) dorsolateral folds absent; (3) tympanum diameter 1.53 times as long as the width of the disc of finger III in females; 2.3 times in males; (4) dorsal skin green with dense granules and sparse irregular brown spots; males with several large warts on dorsum; (5) two metacarpal tubercles; (6) relative finger lengths: I = II < IV < III; (7) tibiotarsal articulation beyond the tip of the snout; (8) ventral surface smooth in females; throat and chest having pale spinules in adult males; (9) dorsal limbs green or yellow green with brown transverse bands; and (10) paired external vocal sacs located at corners of the throat, finger I with light yellow nuptial pad in males. This discovery increases the number of Odorrana species to 59 and those known from China to 37. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of the Asian leaf litter toad genus Leptobrachella is described from Guizhou Province, China. Molecular phylogenetic analyses support the new species as an independent lineage deeply nested in the Leptobrachella clade. The new species is distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following morphological characters: body size medium (SVL 29.7-31.2 mm in five adult males); dorsal skin shagreened, some of the granules forming longitudinal short skin ridges; tympanum distinctly discernible, slightly concave; supra-axillary, femoral, pectoral and ventrolateral glands distinctly visible; absence of webbing and lateral fringes on fingers; toes with narrow lateral fringes but without webbing; heels overlapping when thighs are positioned at right angles to the body; tibia-tarsal articulation reaching the middle of eye when leg stretched forward. The discovery highlighted the underestimated species diversity in the Leptobrachella toads in southwestern China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spiny frog Quasipaa robertingeri is endemic to a narrow region of southwest China and its taxonomic validation is still controversial. Based on COI gene sequences of 110 individuals from seven populations of Q. robertingeri and its related species, we investigated the phylogenetic position and population genetic structure of the species. Phylogenetic analyses indicated that Q. robertingeri was deeply genetically separated from its closely related species Q. boulengeri, indicating the validation of the species. All samples of Q. robertingeri were clustered into two divergent lineages. Haplotype network, AMOVA, and genetic distance estimations also supported the separations of the two groups. Neutrality tests indicated that one lineage has been likely independently experienced a recent population expansion, leading to a secondary contact area between the two lineages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many frogs undergo direct development, in which the embryo develops within the egg and lacks a tadpole stage, being hatched morphologically similar to the adults. Such reproductive behaviour ensures the evolutionary success of their lineages without the limitation of needing a moist substrate for egg deposition. The species in the genus Raorchestes are characterised as small-sized frogs that undergo terrestrial direct development. However, observations of the reproductive behaviour of many species in Raorchestes are lacking. Here, we report the first examination of bush frogs, Raorchestes longchuanensis, from southern China undergoing direct development. Under laboratory conditions, we found that R. longchuanensis can lay two clutches in a single month (as two were laid in the month of June). Only 10–12 eggs were laid per clutch. The hatching period of R. longchuanensis was 25–30 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Age determination is crucial for a full understanding of population dynamics. In this context, we studied the age structure of the paddy frog, Fejervarya multistriata , in a population from the central east of China, using a skeletochronological method. The lines of arrested growth in the phalanges were distinct, and each line was assumed to represent one year of age. Ages ranged between one and four years for adult males and two and four years for adult females. No significant difference was observed in the mean adult age between the sexes. In addition, a significant relationship between age and body size within each sex was detected. Results of ANCOVA analysis suggested a significant difference in body size between sexes when the effect of age was removed. The von-Bertalanffy model showed that females had a larger asymptotic body size than males, and the growth rate of females was higher than that of males. Therefore, the growth rate is a major factor underlying body size patterns in both sexes of F. multistriata in the study population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Land reclamation is a widely adopted method for managing land shortage and promoting coastal economic development globally. However, its impacts on biodiversity vary based on distinct reclamation histories and land use management strategies in different regions. This study aims to examine the effects of reclamation history and land use types at different spatial scales on anuran communities in coastal reclaimed land, which are an important taxon in the coastal ecosystem. We used visual and acoustic encounter methods to survey anurans in 2016 and 2017 across 20 1-km radius coastal land reclamation landscapes with different reclamation histories (10, 20, and 60 y after reclamation) in Nanhui Dongtan of Shanghai, an important coastal land reclamation region along the Yangtze River Estuary. Landscape variables (farmlands, woodlands, and impermeable surface covers, and the landscape Shannon diversity index) at four different spatial scales (250 m, 500 m, 750 m and 1000 m) and water salinity in each landscape were measured. Our findings reveal differences in anuran communities between study sites with 10, 20, and 60 years of reclamation history. Abundances of the ornamented pygmy frog (Microhyla fissipes) and Beijing gold-striped pond frog (Pelophylax plancyi) in landscapes with a 10-year reclamation history were significantly lower compared to those with histories of 20 and 60 years. Zhoushan toad (Bufo gargarizans) abundance was significantly negatively related to farmland cover at the 1000 m scale and impermeable surface cover at the 250 m scale; Hong Kong rice-paddy frog (Fejervarya multistriata) abundance was significantly positively related to farmland cover at the 1000 m scale; ornamented pygmy frog abundance was positively related to farmland cover at the 1000 m scale; and Beijing gold-striped pond frog abundance was significantly positively and negatively related to the landscape Shannon diversity index at the 1000 m scale and to water salinity, respectively. Amphibians quickly migrated and colonized coastal reclaimed land from older natural lands. However, two anuran species with specific habitat requirements tended to avoid areas with shorter reclamation histories. The single-species models revealed different responses to various land uses at the various scales, which indicated that land use management was important to amphibian conservation in coastal reclamation regions., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest All authors declare no conflict of interests., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Asian leaf-litter toads of the genus Leptobrachella represent charismatic anuran diversification with 80 species, of which 25 are from China. Recent new discoveries suggest that the diversity of this genus is underestimated. Here, we describe a new species of Leptobrachella, Leptobrachella bashaensis sp. nov. from the Basha Nature Reserve, Congjiang County, Guizhou Province, China. The new species is distinguished from its congeners by the following suite of morphological traits: small body size (SVL 22.9-25.6 mm in six adult males and 27.1 mm in one adult female); head longer than wide; dorsal skin slightly shagreened with small tubercles; creamy-white chest and belly with irregular black spots; distinct ventrolateral glands forming a white line; finger webbing and fringes absent; toe webbing rudimentary and lateral fringes narrow; iris bicolored with bright orange in upper half and silver in lower half; dorsal surface of tadpole head dark brown with small, brown, irregular spot, air sac-shaped bulges on both sides of body. The new species differs from all known congeners by an uncorrected p-distance of >5.3% of the 16S rRNA gene fragment examined, and the phylogenetic analysis clusters the new species with L. maoershanensis and L. laui. At present, the new species is only known from a small range of montane evergreen secondary forests in Basha Nature Reserve approximately 900 m elevation. Its natural history and conservation status are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new toad species of the genus Leptobrachella are described from the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau of China, based on the combination of molecular and morphological data. The description of Leptobrachella aspera Wang, Lyu, Qi & Wang, sp. nov. from Huanglianshan Nature Reserve represents the thirteenth Leptobrachella species known from Yunnan Province, and the description of Leptobrachella dorsospina Wang, Lyu, Qi & Wang, sp. nov. from Yushe Forest Park represents the sixth Leptobrachella species known from Guizhou Province. These new discoveries further emphasize the extremely high diversity of the Leptobrachella toads in these regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of the genus Megophrys is described from Guizhou Province, China. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on mitochondrial DNA indicated the new species as a clade clustered into the Megophrys clade. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: body size moderate (SVL 40.0-45.5 mm in males and 48.9-51.2 mm in females); vomerine teeth absent; tongue not notched behind; tympanum distinctly visible, oval; a small horn-like tubercle at the edge of each upper eyelid; two metacarpal tubercles in hand; toes with rudimentary webbing; heels overlapping when thighs are positioned at right angles to the body; tibiotarsal articulation reaching the level of mid-eye when leg stretched forward; in breeding males, an internal single subgular vocal sac present and brownish nuptial pads, made up of black nuptial spines, present on the dorsal base of the first two fingers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of the genus Megophrys is described from Guizhou Province, China. Molecular phylogenetic analyses supported the new species as an independent clade nested into the Megophrys. The new species could be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: body size moderate (SVL 49.3-58.2 mm in males); vomerine ridges present distinctly, vomerine teeth present; tongue feebly notched behind; tympanum distinctly visible, oval; two metacarpal tubercles in hand; toes with one-third webbing and wide lateral fringes; heels overlapped when thighs are positioned at right angles to the body; tibiotarsal articulation reaching the level between tympanum and eye when leg stretched forward; an internal single subgular vocal sac present in male; in breeding male, the nuptial pads with large and sparse black nuptial spines present on the dorsal bases of the first two fingers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of geological events and Pleistocene climatic fluctuations as drivers of current patterns of genetic variation in extant species has been a topic of continued interest among evolutionary biologists. Nevertheless, comprehensive studies of widely distributed species are still rare, especially from Asia. Using geographically extensive sampling of many individuals and a large number of nuclear single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), we studied the phylogeography and historical demography of Hyla annectans populations in southern China. Thirty‐five sampled populations were grouped into seven clearly defined genetic clusters that closely match phenotype‐based subspecies classification. These lineages diverged 2.32–5.23 million years ago (Ma), a timing that closely aligns with the rapid and drastic uplifting of the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau and adjacent southwest China. Demographic analyses and species distribution models indicate that different populations of this species have responded differently to past climatic changes. In the Hengduan Mountains, most populations experienced a bottleneck, whereas the populations located outside of the Hengduan Mountains have gradually declined in size since the end of the last glaciation. In addition, the levels of phenotypic and genetic divergence were strongly correlated across major clades. These results highlight the combined effects of geological events and past climatic fluctuations, as well as natural selection, as drivers of contemporary patterns of genetic and phenotypic variation in a widely distributed anuran in Asia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vocalization plays an important role in the communication of anurans. In this study, the advertisement calls of male Fejervarya multistriata obtained in Lishui, Zhejiang, China during the breeding season were recorded. Their note number (NN), note duration (ND), note interval (NI), call duration (CD), pitch (PIT), call intensity (CIT) and dominant frequency (DF) were analyzed. The calls of F. multistriata are composed of one to 38 notes, and calls composed of fewer than ten notes have the highest frequency. Male frogs produced calls ranging from 1201 Hz to 3357 Hz with two DFs (1412.49 Hz and 2953.89 Hz). By comparing the differences among individual calls, it was found that the within-individual coefficients of variation (CVW) and among-individual coefficients of variation (CVA) for NN, NI, CD, PIT and DF were more than 10%, whereas that of CIT was less than 5%. The CVA/CVW ratios indicate that ND is important for sexual selection, whereas NN, NI CD, PIT, CIT, and DF are important for individual recognition. Phylogenetic generalized least squares analysis showed that phylogenetic signals affect DF vs. snout-vent length (SVL) and CD of anurans in China, and accounting for phylogenetic signals, DF was negatively correlated with SVL. DF was found to be higher in anurans that breed in flowing water than in those that breed in stagnant water, after eliminating the effects of phylogeny and SVL. Therefore, we conclude that phylogenetic effects, SVL, and the water type of breeding habitats have a combined impact on the advertisement calls in anurans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of the Asian leaf litter toad genus Leptobrachella from Guizhou Province, China is described based on molecular phylogenetic analyses, morphological comparisons, and bioacoustics data. Phylogenetic analyses based on the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene sequences supported the new species as an independent clade nested into the Leptobrachella clade and sister to L. bijie. The new species could be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: small body size (SVL 30.8-33.4 mm in seven adult males, and 34.2 mm in one adult female); dorsal skin shagreened, some of the granules forming longitudinal short skin ridges; tympanum distinctly discernible, slightly concave; internasal distance longer than interorbital distance; supra-axillary, femoral, pectoral and ventrolateral glands distinctly visible; absence of webbing and lateral fringes on fingers; toes with rudimentary webbing and shallow lateral fringes, relative finger lengths II < IV < I < III; heels overlapped when thighs are positioned at right angles to the body; and tibia-tarsal articulation reaches the tympanum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of the genus Megophrys is described from Guizhou Province, China. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on mitochondrial DNA and nuclear DNA sequences all strongly supported the new species as an independent clade sister to M. minor and M. jiangi. The new species could be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: body size moderate (SVL 43.4-44.1 mm in males, and 44.8-49.8 mm in females; vomerine teeth absent; tongue not notched behind; a small hornlike tubercle at the edge of each upper eyelid; tympanum distinctly visible, rounded; two metacarpal tubercles on palm; relative finger lengths II < I < V < III; toes without webbing; heels overlapping when thighs are positioned at right angles to the body; tibiotarsal articulation reaching the level between tympanum and eye when leg stretched forward; in breeding males, an internal single subgular vocal sac in male, and the nuptial pads with black spines on dorsal surface of bases of the first two fingers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The toad genus Oreolalax is widely distributed in southwest China and northern Vietnam. A new species of the genus is described from Sichuan Province, China. Phylogenetic analyses based on the mitochondrial 12S rRNA and 16S rRNA gene sequences supported the new species as an independent clade clustered into the clade also containing O. nanjiangensis and O. chuanbeiensis. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: body size moderate (SVL 51.2-64.2 mm in males); head broad; tympanum hidden; interorbital region with dark triangular pattern; belly with marbling; male lacking spines on lip margin; spiny patches on chest small with thick sparse spines in male; nuptial spines thick and sparse; tibio-tarsal articulation reaching beyond nostril when leg stretched forward; toe webbing at base. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study describes a new species of the genus Leptobrachella, Leptobrachella suiyangensis sp. nov. from the Huoqiuba Nature Reserve, Suiyang County, Guizhou Province, China, based on morphological data and phylogenetic analyses (16S rRNA mtDNA). The new species can be distinguished from other congeners by the molecular divergence and by a combination of morphological characters, including body size, dorsal and ventral patterns, dorsal skin texture, size of the pectoral and femoral glands, degree of webbing and fringing on the toes and fingers, dorsum coloration, and iris coloration in life. Currently, the genus Leptobrachella contains 75 species, 21 of which are found in China, including seven species reported from Guizhou Province. The uncorrected sequence divergence percentage between Leptobrachella suiyangensis sp. nov. and all homologous DNA sequences available for the 16S rRNA gene was found to be >4.7%. The new record of the species and its relationships with others in the same genus imply that species distribution, habitat variation, environmental adaptation, and diversity of the genus Leptobrachella in southwest China need to be further investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Elizabethkingia is an emerging life-threatening pathogen in both humans and animals. We describe the whole-genome analysis of an Elizabethkingia miricola strain isolated from a diseased frog in China and investigate the molecular mechanism of carbapenem resistance in this pathogen.Methods: WGS of E. miricola FL160902 was performed using single-molecule, real-time technology. A phylogenetic tree was generated by SNP analysis, comparing the genome of our strain with other E. miricola isolates of amphibian and human origins. Antimicrobial resistance genes and virulence-related genes were identified using the Comprehensive Antibiotic Resistance Database (CARD) and the Virulence Factor Database (VFDB). Two putative carbapenemase genes were expressed in Escherichia coli to evaluate their contribution to antimicrobial resistance.Results: The genome of E. miricola FL160902 consists of a 4 249 586 bp circular chromosome with 27 putative resistance genes and 38 predicted virulence-associated genes. Comparative genomic analysis demonstrated that the E. miricola strains of human and amphibian origins have similar virulence-associated gene profiles. In addition, all the amphibian isolates clustered together with one of the human isolates in the phylogenetic analysis. WGS revealed the presence of two novel MBL genes, designated blaBlaB-16 and blaGOB-19. Cloning of blaBlaB-16 and blaGOB-19 into E. coli DH5α resulted in increased MICs of most β-lactams, including imipenem, meropenem and ampicillin.Conclusions: We identified two chromosomal MBL gene variants, named blaBlaB-16 and blaGOB-19 in an amphibian E. miricola isolate, which was considered potentially zoonotic based on phylogenetic analysis and virulence-associated gene comparison. This study highlights the importance of E. miricola as a potential zoonotic pathogen and a reservoir of MDR genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus-level recognition of monophyletic shortlegged toads (Brachytarsophrys) has been recently implicated in the taxonomic debate of Megophrys sensu lato. In the present study, Brachytarsophrys is reasonably regarded as a distinct genus based on significant morphological differentiations and recent molecular analyses. Furthermore, a comprehensive review of this genus is performed, with two species groups proposed based on morphological differences and phylogenetic relationships. Particularly, Brachytarsophrys platyparietus is removed as a synonym of Brachytarsophrys carinense and considered a valid species due to significant genetic divergence and distinct morphological differences. In addition, a new species, Brachytarsophrys orientalis sp. nov., is described based on a series of specimens collected from southeastern China. This work takes the member species of the genus Brachytarsophrys to seven, suggesting that the diversity of Brachytarsophrys is underestimated. In addition, the genus levels of other monophyletic groups within the subfamily Megophryinae are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In China, frogs play an understudied role in the spread of human sparganosis (caused by the larval form of Spirometra). However, our knowledge about the prevalence of sparganum infection in frogs remains fragmented, and the taxonomic identification of the parasite is still controversial. Methodology/Principal findings: The prevalence of sparganum infection in wild frogs was surveyed at 145 geographical locations from 28 of the 34 provinces/autonomous regions/municipalities in China for six years. The collected sparganum isolates from the different locations were subjected to molecular identification by a multiplex PCR assay and then were analysed with clustering analysis. In the survey, sparganum infection was found in 8 out of 13 of the collected frog species, and the most frequently infected species was Pelophylax nigromaculatus (the infection rate was up to 14.07%). Infected frogs were found in 80 of the 145 surveyed locations. The sparganum infection rates in the wild frogs in several regions of China were still high (above 10%), especially in South and Southwest China. A total of 72 spargana were selected for molecular identification, and the clustering analysis showed that sequences from the Chinese isolates were very similar to those identified as from Spirometra erinaceieuropaei. However, the taxonomy of the genus remains confused and further analysis is required. Conclusions: Eating wild frogs is associated with considerable health risks in China. Several traditional Chinese folk remedies may increase the risk of infection. The sparganum isolates in China are most likely from S. erinaceieuropaei, but new studies, especially comprehensive morphological analyses, are needed in the future. Author summary: Human sparganosis has increased in recent years in China. Frogs play an important role in the spread of sparganosis. However, our knowledge about the prevalence of sparganum infection in frogs remains incomplete, and the taxonomic identification of sparganum is still controversial. In this study, the prevalence of sparganum infection in frogs was surveyed at 145 geographical locations in China. In addition, 72 spargana representing 72 distinct geographical isolates were selected for molecular identification. Frogs that tested positive for sparganum infection were found in 80 of the 145 surveyed locations, and the average infection rate was 10.96% (447/4078), with most of the spargana present in the thigh muscles of the infected frogs. The levels of sparganum infections in wild frogs in South and Southwest China were higher than those in the central and eastern regions. In the molecular identification analysis, all of the isolates revealed two specific bands in the multiplex PCR assay; the further clustering analysis of the sequenced PCR products showed that the Chinese isolates had a close relationship with Spirometra erinaceieuropaei. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: With the late Cenozoic uplift of the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau (QTP), drainage of the southeastern edge of the QTP changed significantly. However, the impact of this dramatic change on the geographical distribution and genetic diversity of endemic organisms is still poorly understood. Here, we examined the geographical patterns of genetic variation in the Yunnan small narrow‐mouthed frog, Glyphoglossus yunnanensis (Microhylidae), and two alternative hypotheses were tested: That is, the geographical distribution of genetic variation was determined by either the contemporary drainage basin or historical drainage basins. Location: The Mountains of southwest China. Materials and methods: Analyses were based on 417 specimens collected from across the distribution of the species. We reconstructed the genealogy (Bayesian and maximum parsimony methods) and assessed demographic history based on DNA sequencing data from mitochondrial and nuclear markers. We also mapped the genetic diversity and estimated the divergence times by a relaxed clock model. Results: The species has maintained a relatively stable population size without recent population expansion. Four major maternal lineages were identified with good support, one representing a possible cryptic species and the other three showing further subdivision. The distribution of these deeply differentiated lineages/sublineages corresponded well to geographical regions. The secondary contact zones and phylogeographic breaks in distinct lineages of G. yunnanensis were almost concordant with those of Nanorana yunnanensis. Main conclusions: Lineage division conformed to the hypothesis of drainage system evolution, that is, the phylogeographic pattern of G. yunnanensis was shaped by historical drainage patterns. Concordance in phylogeographic patterns may suggest a shared response to common hydrogeological history and also might indicate that there was more contribution of the drainage history than ecological or life‐history traits in structuring genetic variation between these two disparate codistributed taxa G. yunnanensis and N. yunnanensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Habitat selection refers to animals' choices and preferences relative to environmental conditions. Animals may select habitats based on external conditions such as climate, topographic traits, vegetation conditions, resource abundance, and human impacts. It also may be influenced by factors such as predator avoidance or an individual's physiological status. Identification of a species' essential habitat requirements is a fundamental component in understanding its ecology and conducting population management. Poikilothermic species, including amphibians, which experience harsh winter conditions, usually have strict requirements for hibernacula to ensure suitable conditions and promote their overwintering survival. To explore habitat utilization during hibernation by the Asiatic toad (Bufo gargarizans), we carried out field investigations in the Badagongshan National Nature Reserve, central China. We detected several ecological factors impacting on habitat selection and analysed the different degrees of preference exhibited by the toads. Based on an informationtheoretic method and resource selection functions, our results revealed that distance to the nearest breeding pond, landuse type, soil texture, mean height of herbaceous plants, slope, and slope position were the main factors determining the hibernation habitat selection of B. gargarizans. The toads preferred croplands and vegetable patches with clayey soil and a mean height of herbaceous plants < 60 cm, and habitats at lower slope positions with < 20° of slope for hibernation. Our study provides valuable information about the overwintering ecology of B. gargarizans. It could be used as a scientific reference to population and habitat management of this toad species, and also expands our knowledge on the hibernating behaviour of amphibians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We identified and characterized a new cosmocercid nematode species, Cosmocercoides wuyiensis n. sp., through microscopic examination and sequencing of the partial small ribosomal RNA gene (18S rDNA), internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) genes. The new species was isolated from the intestine of the Asiatic frog Amolops wuyiensis Liu and Hu, 1975 captured from four localities of the Anhui province in south-east China. Among the 25 recorded species of the Cosmocercoides genus, the morphology of C. wuyiensis n. sp. is closest to that of C. kiliwai and C. malayensis , which were isolated from various Mexican frog and Malaysian lizard species, respectively. However, C. wuyiensis n. sp. displayed several distinguishing features, such as small size of the male body, two spicules of unequal lengths in the male, small gubernaculum, pre-, ad- and post-cloacal caudal rosette papillae in the ratio of 18–24:2:6 and simple papillae in the ratio of 14:multiple:4, circle and number of punctation in each rosette at 1:11–16, sharply conical tail-end and the presence of lateral alae and somatic papillae in both sexes. BLAST and the phylogenetic analyses of the 18S rDNA and ITS sequences indicated that C. wuyiensis n. sp. belonged to the genus Cosmocercoides , while that of the COI gene sequence of C. wuyiensis n. sp. showed 16.36% nucleotide divergence with C. pulcher and 47.99% nucleotide divergence with C. qingtianensis. The morphological and molecular characterization of C. wuyiensis n. sp. provides new taxonomic data for this genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Megalobatrachonema is a rare group of nematode parasites within Ascaridida. The systematic status of Megalobatrachonema in the superfamily Cosmocercoidea (Ascaridida) has long been controversial. The relationship of Megalobatrachonema and Chabaudgolvania remains unsolved. In the present study, a new species of Megalobatrachonema , M. hainanensis sp. nov., was described based on specimens collected in Amolops hainanensis (Boulenger) and Hylarana spinulosa (Smith) (Amphibia: Anura) from Hainan Island, China. The large ribosomal DNA (28S) and internal transcribed spacer (ITS1-5.8S-ITS2) were also sequenced for molecular identification and phylogenetic study. Phylogenetic analyses using maximum likelihood (ML) inference and Bayesian inference (BI) based on 28S and ITS1 sequence data, respectively, supported that Megalobatrachonema is a member of the family Kathlaniidae. In addition, the genetic comparison and phylogenetic results based on ITS1 sequence data also supported that the genus Chabaudgolvania should be considered as a synonym of Megalobatrachonema. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many environmental factors such as temperature or food level may influence growth and mortality risks of ectothermic vertebrates in both aquatic and terrestrial habitats. In this study, plasticity in growth rates, survival, larval period, and size at metamorphosis were examined in Bufo gargarizans gargarizans larvae under different combinations of temperature and food level. Our results showed that larvae metamorphosed at an older age when reared at 17.3°C. A significant interaction between food level and temperature revealed that the food level has obviously affected length of larval period when tadpoles raised at 17.3 °C, but not at 27.3 or 31.3 °C. Also, we found clear evidence that growth rates are influenced by both temperature and food level. Interestingly, tadpoles reared at 17.3 °C had larger size at metamorphosis than those reared at other temperatures, suggesting that B. g. gargarizans larvae reared at cold temperatures have a longer developmental period but they are also larger as metamorphs than conspecifics reared at warmer temperatures. Therefore, the global climate change or local manipulations of the environment may promote growth and development of B. g. gargarizans larvae, but not large size at metamorphosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rana dybowskii Gunther, 1876 is a dominant amphibian species in northeast China. In order to understand the composition and structure of the cutaneous bacterial communities of farmed and wild R. dybowskii, two experimental groups (farmed and wild) were investigated in this study. Following DNA extraction, the V3-V4 hypervariable region of the 16S rRNA gene was targeted and analyzed by high-throughput sequencing. The cutaneous bacterial community diversity was investigated and compared through analysis of alpha and beta diversity. A total of 524,852 valid sequences and 1,023 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were obtained from these two experimental groups. The number of shared OTUs was 333, while there were 603 unique OTUs in the farmed group and 87 unique OTUs in the wild group. The Chao, ACE and Shannon indices of the farmed group were significantly higher than those of the wild group (p < 0.05). The composition and abundance of the dominant bacteria at the phylum and genus levels were different. The dominant phyla in the farmed group were Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Chloroflexi, Fusobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Cyanobacteria. The dominant phyla of the wild group were Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, and Actinobacteria. Furthermore, the alpha and beta diversities of the cutaneous bacterial communities of farmed and wild R. dybowskii exhibited significant differences. This study provides a theoretical basis for comprehensively understanding the composition and abundance of bacteria on the skin of farmed and wild R. dybowskii, which helps to develop its breeding industry and gain economic benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Underwater vocalizations of frogs are usually inaudible to the human ear and have been poorly documented. Some authors believe that they are more common than currently recognized, yet there have been no new records at the genus level for nearly 30 years. I report on the recordings of underwater calling by the ranid species Amolops ricketti (Boulenger, 1899) from a mountain stream in southern China. Males emitted 2.2–3.5 calls per minute under submerged rocks, which were inaudible to the human ear. Most of the recorded calls lasted 0.73–2.09 s and contained a weak initial note with fewer pulses (1–5) and one to three subsequent notes (3–13 pulses each) repeated at a rate of 0.82–1.99 notes·s−1, with an internote interval lasting 0.36–1.19 s. The dominant frequency of calls ranged from 2.1 to 3.0 kHz, and the notes exhibited increasing intensity and slight upward frequency modulation. Comparisons between individuals of different sexes and breeding stages reveal that the loose skin of the flanks and thighs is a male nuptial trait in A. ricketti. The finding extends the phylogenetic distribution of underwater vocalization to a distinct lineage and constitutes another instance of loose‐skin frogs calling underwater, which can also been identified in Pelobates (Pelobatidae), Leptobrachium (Megophryidae), Telmatobius (Telmatobiidae), Rana italica and Rana sakuraii (Ranidae). These independent cases may allow the proposal of an evolutionary correlation of the two traits in anurans, as a large surface/volume ratio facilitates high levels of cutaneous respiration required for the effective performance of underwater calling. An awareness of this possibility may aid in increasing our understanding of the natural history of anurans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The characteristics of male anurans' calls play an important role in mating success during the breeding season. In this study, we analyzed intra- and inter-individual variability of the advertisement calls of the pale-shouldered horned toad (Xenophrys boettgeri) in the field during its breeding season in Lishui, Zhejiang Province, China. The results showed that some acoustic parameters were significantly correlated with morphological features and air temperature. Most acoustic parameters including note numbers, call duration, and dominant frequency were static, whereas the call interval was intermediate. The CVb/CVw ratio was greater than 1.0 for all acoustic parameters analyzed, with between-individual variation being higher than within-individual variation. Furthermore, the acoustic parameter results of principle component analysis and discriminant function analysis indicated that note numbers and call interval are potentially useful for individual discrimination of X. boettgeri. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although many studies have examined polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and novel brominated flame retardants (NBFRs) in biota, information on the bioaccumulation characteristics of NBFRs from field works is limited. This study investigated the tissue-specific exposure to PBDEs and NBFRs in two reptilian (short-tailed mamushi and red-backed rat snake) and one amphibian species (black-spotted frog) prevalent in the Yangtze River Delta, China. The levels of ΣPBDEs and ΣNBFRs ranged from 4.4-250 and 2.9-22 ng/g lipid weight for snakes respectively and 2.9-120 and 7.1-97 ng/g lipid weight for frogs respectively. BDE-209, BDE-154, and BDE-47 were three major PBDE congeners while decabromodiphenylethane (DBDPE) dominated in NBFRs. Tissue burdens indicated that snake adipose was the major storage site of PBDEs and NBFRs. The biomagnification factors (BMFs) estimated from black-spotted frog to red-backed rat snake indicated the biomagnification of penta- to nona-BDE congeners (BMFs 1.1-4.0) but the lack of biomagnification of other BDE and all NBFR congeners (BMFs 0.16-0.78). Mother to egg transfer of PBDEs and NBFRs evaluated in frogs showed that maternal transfer efficiency was positively related to chemical lipophilicity. This is the first field study on the tissue distribution of NBFRs in reptiles and amphibians and the maternal transfer behavior of 5 major NBFRs. The results underline the bioaccumulation potential of alternative NBFRs., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)