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Audiovisual collections in traditional private or public institutions are crucial for preserving and safeguarding natural recordings of biodiversity. These archives represent a snapshot of invaluable moments, behaviours, and interactions among species, often representing the last or only existing recordings. Therefore, animal vocalisation recordings are essential for future generations to understand the past and preserve the remaining biodiversity. In this study, we examined the largest Latin American sound archive, the Fonoteca Neotropical Jacques Vielliard, in search for anuran sounds that are not yet formally described. Herein, we describe the calls of eight species, the advertisement call of seven of them, and the release call of two of them. These species, belonging to three different families, were recorded in Brazil over the past six decades and have different conservation status. Notably, two of them are threatened by extinction and one is extinct. Our study fills important knowledge gaps about rare and declining anuran populations, highlighting the value of public scientific audiovisual collections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bufo rubroventromaculatus Orlov, Ananjeva, Ermakov, Lukonina, Ninh & Nguyen, 2024 is a species recently described from Vietnam. Currently, this species is known from central and northern Vietnam and it uncertain whether this species is distributed in China. In addition, the original description of this species is very brief. New information: Based on nine specimens collected from Yunnan Province and Guangxi Autonomous Region, China, we provide the first confirmed record of Bufo rubroventromaculatus from China. The morphological characteristics of the specimens from China mostly agree with the original description of B. rubroventromaculatus and, phylogenetically, the specimens from China clustered with the type series of B. rubroventromaculatus from Vietnam. We also provide a supplementary description of this species, based on the specimens we collected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tadpoles serve as crucial evidence for testing systematic and taxonomic hypotheses. Suctorial tadpoles collected in Guyana were initially assigned to Rhaebo nasicus through molecular phylogeny. Subsequent analysis of larval and adult morphological traits revealed synapomorphies within the clade encompassing R. nasicus and R. ceratophrys, prompting the recognition of a new genus described herein as Adhaerobufo. The new genus is distinguished from other bufonids by specific phenotypic traits including an enlarged, suctorial oral disc with distinct papillae arrangements, and the presence of certain muscles and narial vacuities at the larval stage. However, only a few adult external characteristics (e.g., enlarged eyelids, infraocular cream spot), seem to be reliably discriminative from related genera. This study underscores the significance of larval morphology in anuran systematics and offers new insights into the evolution of suctorial and gastromyzophorous larvae within bufonids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Discoveries of new species can greatly impact our understanding of the biogeography of a region. For example, groups of amphibian lineages restricted to the Afrotemperate forests of Tanzania and Ethiopia are indicative of a shared biogeographical history of this highly discontinuous ecosystem. Curiously, many of these lineages are absent from the geographically intermediate Kenyan highlands. This phylogeographical interval is generally considered to be attributable to the younger, volcanic origins of much of the Kenyan highlands, and thus an amphibian fauna that is derived largely from recent colonization events rather than comprising older relicts. Contrasting with this view, here we report on the discovery of a single specimen of Bufonidae (true toad) from Mount Kenya. The specimen belongs to a species new to science and deserves recognition at the generic level owing to its notable molecular phylogenetic and morphological divergences from other described taxa. It is most closely related to the Tanzanian genera Churamiti and Nectophrynoides. The discovery of this new toad and its association with Afrotemperate species is significant because it links Kenya to the biogeographically more ancient Tanzanian mountains and supports the potential longevity of the Afrotemperate forests in Kenya. Broadly, it highlights that we are still adding major branches to the phylogeny of anurans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tympanic middle ear (TME) is a complex morphological adaptation that facilitates auditory reception in multiple clades of tetrapods, including anurans. Despite its utility, it has been partially or completely lost at least 38 times in anurans, and there is no clear explanation for how or why this loss occurred. We used micro-CT scans and 3D segmentation to catalog presence/absence and shape of the columella throughout the Central American toad genus Incilius. We found that the TME has been lost multiple times in Incilius and our outgroup Rhinella, with at least one regaining event. Absence of the columella and the different shapes of the columella both have high phylogenetic signal. Incilius species have a different distribution of columella shapes than many other genera of anurans that have been surveyed, including more blade-shaped columellae than found in other genera and one species with vestigial remnants of a columella. The columella shape most common in Incilius, a blade, may be derived from the rod shape also found in many other bufonids; the adaptive significance of this trait remains unknown. This study succeeds in providing a fine-scale review of earlessness and columellar morphology in Incilius, but the processes underlying the patterns we observe remain unclear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the major factors driving the currently ongoing biodiversity crisis is the anthropogenic spread of infectious diseases. Diseases can have conspicuous consequences, such as mass mortality events, but may also exert covert but similarly severe effects, such as sex ratio distortion via sex‐biased mortality. Chytridiomycosis, caused by the fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) is among the most important threats to amphibian biodiversity. Yet, whether Bd infection can skew sex ratios in amphibians is currently unknown, although such a hidden effect may cause the already dwindling amphibian populations to collapse. To investigate this possibility, we collected common toad (Bufo bufo) tadpoles from a natural habitat in Hungary and continuously treated them until metamorphosis with sterile Bd culture medium (control), or a liquid culture of a Hungarian or a Spanish Bd isolate. Bd prevalence was high in animals that died during the experiment but was almost zero in individuals that survived until the end of the experiment. Both Bd treatments significantly reduced survival after metamorphosis, but we did not observe sex‐dependent mortality in either treatment. However, a small number of genotypically female individuals developed male phenotype (testes) in the Spanish Bd isolate treatment. Therefore, future research is needed to ascertain if larval Bd infection can affect sex ratio in common toads through female‐to‐male sex reversal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By selecting appropriate microhabitats, animals gain various benefits. For amphibians, which are ectothermic, appropriate microhabitat selection is directly related to their survival. This study aims to characterize the microhabitat type selected by Bufo gargarizans in South Korea, which has not yet been examined, using radiotelemetry. We analyzed the percent cover of different microhabitat features at sites where B. gargarizans was found. The microhabitat was categorized into eight types: stacked dry leaves litter or hay, grass, naked field, stones/pebbles, fallen branches, alive or dead trees/shrubs, wetland, and other. We collected a total of 60 location data, all of which had closed cover. From these, nine hibernation sites and six post-breeding dormancy sites were identified. Dry leaf litter was found to be the most frequently selected microhabitat type. We also found significant differences in microhabitat type between the hibernation period and the post-breeding dormancy period. We considered that these differences can be explained by the ecological characteristics of B. gargarizans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to characterize the gonads, folliculogenesis, and spermatogenesis processes of male and female Rhinella bergi through anatomical, histological and morphometric analysis. We worked with specimens previously collected in the spring and summer seasons (2014-2015), in which the gonads were studied based on morphological, histological and morphometric analysis. The reproductive system was analyzed using a stereoscopic microscope and a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Histological preparations were made following the conventional protocol of dehydration, inclusion in paraffin and stained with haematoxylin-eosin, Mallory trichrome and PAS histochemical reactions. The anatomical and morphometric characteristics and the gametogenesis in R. bergi agree with what was proposed for other analyzed species of the Bufonidae family. Females with ovaries with oocytes in different stages of maturity and postovulatory females were found. The males presented continuous spermatogenesis. The results of this work serve as a basis for the characterization of the reproductive cycle in R. bergi and, at the same time, provide background information on the analysis of gametogenic activity. Future investigations will be focused on evaluating the reproductive cycle in this species, both in ovaries and testes as well as Bidder's organ, to compare and correlate with the results obtained in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on a combination of molecular and morphological data, we herein report a new species within the bufonid Bufo gargarizans species complex. This is a widespread species complex with distribution from eastern Russia and the Korean Peninsula to China and the Ryukyu Islands of Japan. Records of this species have been documented in the Guangxi and Yunnan Provinces near the border with Vietnam and, for the first time from Vietnam, in Ha Giang Province. The new record of Bufo cf. gargarizans from Vietnam is from Ha Tinh Province. This species has never been reported from Vietnam so far south, about 550 km south from the previously known locality in Ha Giang Province. The female specimen was found in the Ha Tinh Province, Vu Quang National Park of central Vietnam and two specimens (male and female) were found Ha Giang Province. They are clearly distinguished from B. gargarizans and all the mentioned species by a specific color pattern on the belly and creamy-yellowish throat with large, bright red speckles. Genetic divergences of three Vietnam specimens from Ha Giang and Ha Tinh Provinces in the ND2 gene sequences between the B. sp. nov. and all other congeners ranged from 4.3% (with B. andrewsi) to 7.0% (with B. stejnegeri). We give a description of the morphological characters and coloration of the new record and provide an expanded diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract One of the major factors driving the currently ongoing biodiversity crisis is the anthropogenic spread of infectious diseases. Diseases can have conspicuous consequences, such as mass mortality events, but may also exert covert but similarly severe effects, such as sex ratio distortion via sex‐biased mortality. Chytridiomycosis, caused by the fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) is among the most important threats to amphibian biodiversity. Yet, whether Bd infection can skew sex ratios in amphibians is currently unknown, although such a hidden effect may cause the already dwindling amphibian populations to collapse. To investigate this possibility, we collected common toad (Bufo bufo) tadpoles from a natural habitat in Hungary and continuously treated them until metamorphosis with sterile Bd culture medium (control), or a liquid culture of a Hungarian or a Spanish Bd isolate. Bd prevalence was high in animals that died during the experiment but was almost zero in individuals that survived until the end of the experiment. Both Bd treatments significantly reduced survival after metamorphosis, but we did not observe sex‐dependent mortality in either treatment. However, a small number of genotypically female individuals developed male phenotype (testes) in the Spanish Bd isolate treatment. Therefore, future research is needed to ascertain if larval Bd infection can affect sex ratio in common toads through female‐to‐male sex reversal.

This article examines the infestation patterns of Amblyomma rotundatum ticks on Rhinella ornata toads in two different environments in Southeast Brazil. The study reveals that while the prevalence of tick infestations is higher on toads from oceanic islands, tick abundance and mean intensity of infestation are higher on toads from mainland areas. The researchers suggest that reduced human activity on the islands may result in less altered natural habitats and increased infestation chances, while anthropogenic actions on the mainland may lead to tick re-infestations during toad assemblage. The article also discusses the infestation of A. rotundatum ticks on different species of toads and other animals in Brazil, with Rhinella icterica, Rhinella marina, and Rhinella schneideri being the most commonly infested toad species. Notably, no males of A. rotundatum were found on toads, but instead on a snake, a lizard, and a tortoise. The collection of the ticks was conducted legally, and the authors have no conflicts of interest. [Extracted from the article]

The Large-crested toad is an endemic species of the mountain cloud forests of the Sierra Madre Oriental in Mexico. It is listed as endangered, and the population trend is decreasing. We used mitochondrial fragments 12S (450 bp) and cytochrome b (410 bp) from four toads' populations from remnant fragments of mountain cloud forest in Puebla and Veracruz to estimate the genetic' structure, gene flow, and demographic history. The 12S gene had a single haplotype and null nucleotide diversity. The cytochrome b fragment showed 4 haplotypes, intermediate nucleotide diversity (π = 0.0068), and strong genetic structuring ( F ST = 0.8). Demographic history suggests that there is a low effective population size (Ne = 37.42), possibly due to post-bottleneck expansion and contraction events in some populations. Current difficulty finding individuals at localities where they had been previously documented suggests that the population continues to decline, resulting in low diversity and gene flow. Habitat fragmentation and loss, as well as water pollution at breeding sites, increases the probability of extinction of this species. The importance of establishing conservation strategies for the habitat and genetic diversity of the remaining populations is highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A key component of amphibian antipredator strategies is the chemical defenses that make them toxic and/or distasteful, like the cardiotoxic bufadienolides synthesized by the true toads and stored in granular skin glands. The morphology of adult toad glands is well-described, but the ontogenetic timing and distribution of glands during larval stages are poorly understood. A comparative understanding of granular gland development is needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the diversification of toad chemical defenses and their ecological roles across lineages and ontogeny. Herein, we analyzed gland morphology before and after metamorphosis of Rhinella horribilis, Incilius melanochlorus, and I. luetkenii. We hypothesized that granular gland development would begin earlier and progress faster in relatively more toxic Rhinella species. Our results showed that the timeline of skin development, the relative dimensions and quantity of structures, and the appearance of protein and mucin content in granular and mucous glands did not vary among Rhinella and Incilius. Furthermore, epidermal mucus and/or giant cells in larval toads may act as sources of chemical defenses prior to gland development. Our findings suggest that gland development is well-conserved among these genera; it is possible that reported differences in toxin profiles are not due to divergent morphogenesis during larval or metamorphic stages, but rather to differences in molecular function or structural differentiation in juveniles or adults. Therefore, complementary studies using integrative techniques such as immunohistochemistry and comparative transcriptomics are needed to uncover the mechanisms responsible for the diversity of chemical defenses found in bufonid toads across development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Frostius pernambucensis is a phytotelm-breeding frog with endotrophic larvae. Although the larvae were formally described, no aspect of its internal morphology is known. In this paper, we re-describe the tadpole based on a large sample, describe its internal anatomy (buccopharyngeal cavity and musculo-skeletal system), provide data on natural history, and discuss the evolution of endotrophy and phytotelma colonization. The tadpoles of F. pernambucensis are highly modified, with depressed bodies, reduced mouthparts, and long tails. Many character-states described for these tadpoles can be related to its endotrophic development. Consequence of this highly modified phenotype, we propose several novel putative synapomorphies for the genus: (1) labial tooth row formula 1/1; (2) absence of pustulation in the buccal roof and (3) floor; (4) absence of median ridge; (5) absence of lateral ridge papillae; (6) absence of secretory ridges and pores; (7) absence of filter plates; (7) m. subarcualis rectus II–IV originating on ceratobranchial III; (8) m. subarcualis rectus II–IV inserting on ceratobranchial I; (8) ventral slip of the m. subarcualis rectus I inserting on the ceratobranchial III; (9) suprarostral corpora fused to the cornua trabeculae; (10) commissura quadratoorbitalis absent; (11) cerabranchial II attached to the planum hypobranchiale; and (12) ceratobranchial III attached to the planum hypobranchiale. Finally, we also propose that the presence of a single pair of infralabial papilla could represent a synapomorphy of bufonids. The colonization of phytotelma seem to have created a selective pression on the development of F. pernambucenis, favoring the evolution of endotrophy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Horticulture poses a significant ecological risk, as agrochemicals are applied more frequently and in larger quantities per unit of production compared to extensive crop fields. The native amphibian Rhinella arenarum serves as a reliable bioindicator of environmental health. This study aimed to assess genocytotoxic damage and demographic life history traits of R. arenarum inhabiting horticultural environments. Sampling was conducted in suburban sites in central Argentina: H1 and H2 (sites associated with horticultural activity) and a reference site, RS. Environmental parameters were recorded, and the frequency of micronuclei (Mn), nuclear abnormalities (ENA), and indicators of cytotoxic damage were determined in tadpoles and adults. Demographic variables (age at maturity, longevity, potential reproductive lifespan, size at maturity, modal lifespan) were calculated. The highest nitrate and phosphate values, along with low dissolved oxygen values, were recorded at sites H1 and H2. Organisms inhabiting horticultural environments exhibited higher frequencies of Mn and ENA, surpassing those recorded in previous studies on tadpoles from sites with extensive crop production. Size at maturity and age at maturity of females, as well as size at maturity, longevity, mean age, and mean adult SVL of males, were lower in horticultural sites. The results support the hypothesis that anuran populations inhabiting horticultural environments demonstrate a diminished health status attributed to subpar environmental quality. Monitoring endpoints at different biological levels provides information on the ecotoxicological risk for amphibians and human populations inhabiting nearby areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In this study, we focus on the evaluation of the conservation priority of amphibian species in Chile. We emphasize the importance of establishing standardized criteria to evaluate and classify this priority, considering factors such as extinction risk, geographic distribution, and ecological importance. We establish priority categories for species, allowing us to identify those that require immediate attention in terms of conservation. Six species with a high priority, eight with a medium priority, twenty-two with a low priority, and twenty-two with no priority were identified. We emphasize the relevance of the Telmatobiidae and Alsodidae families as conservation priorities, highlighting the need to focus our conservation efforts on these amphibian families in Chile. This approach provides a solid basis for informed decision making in the allocation of limited resources for biodiversity conservation. Resources are limited in global biodiversity conservation efforts, which emphasizes the significance of setting conservation priorities. Using standardized criteria, we evaluated 58 amphibian species in Chile to determine their conservation priority (CP). Species with insufficient historical data had their values marked as missing. With a median value of p = 1.67, the results demonstrated CP values ranging from p = 0.48 to p = 3.0, classifying species into priority and non-priority groups. Four levels were established for the priority categories: no priority, low priority, medium priority, and high priority. Additionally, the Telmatobiidae and Alsodidae families were identified as two more priority families. Notably, the species with the highest priority were found to be T. halli, T. fronteriensis, T. philippii, T. chusmisensis, A. pehuenche, and Alsodes tumultuosus, where T. philippii and T. fronteriensis have equal priority for conservation at the national level according to the conservation priority analysis. Eight priority families—the Alsodidae, Batrachylidae, Bufonidae, Ceratophryidae, Leptodactylidae, Rhinodermatidae, and Telmatobiidae—were determined, and 14 species—or 24% of the species examined—need further study. Based on the conservation priority analysis, the species T. fronteriensis and T. philippii share the highest priority for conservation at the national level (p = 2.50). With 70% of the amphibians under study being threatened mainly by habitat loss, pollution, and emerging diseases, the creation of conservation categories made the threat assessment process easier. Due to a lack of information on geographic distribution and abundance, quantitatively classifying amphibians in Chile remains difficult. The analysis of conservation priorities and potential extinction threats informs appropriate management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Se describe y nomina una nueva especie de Atelopus del grupo longirostris (sensu Peters 1973) o ignescens (sensu Lynch, 1993:86) de los bosques húmedos orientales del Parque Nacional Natural Cordillera Los Picachos en el Municipio de San Vicente del Caguán. Departamento del Caquetá.

AbstractThe level of detail on host communities needed to understand multihost parasite invasions is an unresolved issue in disease ecology. Coarse community metrics that ignore functional differences between hosts, such as host species richness, can be good predictors of invasion outcomes. Yet if host species vary in the extent to which they maintain and transmit infections, then explicitly accounting for those differences may be important. Through controlled mesocosm experiments and modeling, we show that interspecific differences between host species are important for community-wide infection dynamics of the multihost fungal parasite of amphibians (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis [Bd]), but only up to a point. The most abundant host species in our system, fire salamander larvae (Salamandra salamandra), did not maintain or transmit infections. Rather, two less abundant "auxiliary" host species, Iberian tree frog (Hyla molleri) and spiny toad (Bufo spinosus) larvae, maintained and transmitted Bd. Frogs had the highest mean rates of Bd shedding, giving them the highest contributions to the basic reproduction number, R0. Toad contributions to R0 were substantial, however, and when examining community-level patterns of infection and transmission, the effects of frogs and toads were similar. Specifying more than just host species richness to distinguish salamanders from auxiliary host species was critical for predicting community-level Bd prevalence and transmission. Distinguishing frogs from toads, however, did not improve predictions. These findings demonstrate limitations to the importance of host species identities in multihost infection dynamics. Host species that exhibit different functional traits, such as susceptibility and infectiousness, may play similar epidemiological roles in the broader community.

The genus Rhinella (Bufonidae) comprises 92 species of Neotropical toads. In Colombia, Rhinella is represented by 22 recognized species, of which nine belong to the Rhinella festae group. Over the past decade, there has been increasing evidence of cryptic diversity within this group, particularly in the context of Andean forms. Specimens of Rhinella collected in high Andean forests on both slopes of the Central Cordillera in Colombia belong to an undescribed species, Rhinella kumanday sp. nov. Genetic analyses using the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene indicated that the individuals belong to the festae species group. However, they can be distinguished from other closely related species such as Rhinella paraguas and Rhinella tenrec by a combination of morphological traits including the presence of tarsal fold, a moderate body size, and substantial genetic divergence in the 16S rRNA gene (> 5%). Through this integrative approach, the specimens from the Central Cordillera of Colombia are considered an evolutionary divergent lineage that is sister to R. paraguas, and described as a new species. Rhinella kumanday sp. nov. is restricted to the Central Cordillera of Colombia inhabiting both slopes in the departments of Caldas and Tolima, in an elevational range between 2420 and 3758 m. With the recognition of this new species, the genus Rhinella now comprises 93 species with 23 of them found in Colombia, and ten species endemic to the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The harlequin toads (Bufonidae, Atelopus) from the Cordillera Occidental of Colombia are poorly understood, with several species being known only from few specimens and a single locality. Material from the Yotoco area, Departamento Valle del Cauca, has been addressed in previous studies and was allocated ambiguously to different available names. We here describe the Yotoco Atelopus as a species new to science as it is readily distinguished from all congenerics by a combination of morphological characters (i.e., snout profile, cranial crests, skin texture, pattern and coloration). In addition, we comment on the taxonomy of three Atelopus populations from the Cordillera Occidental and the Cordillera Central of Colombia; two of them we tentatively assign to A. nicefori and A. sonsonensis, respectively. The third one remains of unclear status. The need for further examination of the harlequin toads from the Andes of Colombia in an integrative taxonomic framework is emphasized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents data on the identification of the helminth fauna structure of Bufo bufo Linnaeus, 1758 and Bufotes viridis Laurenti, 1768 species, ecaudata amphibian from Bufonidae families, and the determination of its role as bioindicators and as vectors for parasitic agents specific to animals. As result of helminthological investigations during 2013-2023 years, in Bufonidae species 19 helminths species was established. The helminthological research carried out on the species Bufo bufo highlighted the presence of 19 species of helminths, of which the predominant parasitic agents are trematodes which make up 47.4%, nematodes with 31.5%, acanthocephals with 15.8% and monogeneans with 5.3%. In Bufotes viridis species, the presence of 18 species of helminths was established, of which helminth species from the trematode class represent the predominant group with 44.4%, nematodes with 38.9%, acanthocephales with 11.1% and monogeneans with 5.6%. The helminthological researches were carried out depending on the age of the host, the type of habitat and the area. The bioindicator significance of the established parasite species was presented for an ecological assessment of the studied area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: We propose a combined approach to explore the model transferability and the effect of climate change on habitat suitability. Location: Southwest United States. Taxon: Amphibians; Anura; Bufonidae; Anaxyrus microscaphus. Methods: To assess the impacts of climate change on A. microscaphus, we obtained 3162 records from the Arizona Game and Fish Department. We classified occurrence records data into six historical groups (from 1960 to 2018) and a contemporary group (from 2019 to 2022). We investigated the ability of historical data to generate accurate predictions of the species' contemporary distribution. We used species distribution modelling to compute habitat suitability values and identified spatial clusters of high suitability values (using hotspot analyses). Results: We show that historical occurrences successfully predicted the contemporary distribution of A. microscaphus. We demonstrate that the geographical distribution of contemporary hotspots is strongly related to precipitation of the wettest quarter. This research provides evidence that climate change will likely affect the distribution of hotspots and the habitat suitability of A. microscaphus. Losses of 37%–48% contraction are expected at the margins of the range both in the north and south of the geographic limits. Main Conclusions: We show that recent past data can be used to predict contemporary species distribution accurately. We highlight that habitat suitability values of A. microscaphus are strongly related to climate, topography and distance to streams. This study provides clear evidence of the negative impacts of climate change on habitat suitability in the Southwest United States drylands. Our approach has applied utility to managers to target survey areas, monitor habitat changes, plan for conservation mitigation measures, conserve stream flows across the species' range and inform recovery if needed. Thus, managers could use previously collected data to predict contemporary species distribution when their occurrence accurately characterizes the species' ecological niche. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amphibians are widely known as a prolific source of bioactive metabolites. In this work, we isolated and characterized compounds with antiparasitic activity from the oocytes of the toad Rhinella alata collected in Panama. Bio-guided isolation and structural elucidation were carried out using chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques, respectively. The organic extract was subjected to solid phase extraction followed by HPLC purification of the fraction with in vitro activity against Trypanosoma cruzi trypomastigotes. Seven steroids (1–7) of the bufadienolide family were isolated, and their structures were determined using NMR and MS analyses; of these 19-formyl-dyscinobufotalin, (3) is reported as a new natural product. Compounds 1 and 3–7 resulted in a good anti-trypanosomal activity profile. Among these, 16β-hydroxyl-hellebrigenin (1) and bufalin (7) showed significant selectivity values of >5 and 2.69, respectively, while the positive control benznidazole showed a selectivity of 18.81. Furthermore, molecular docking analysis showed compounds 1, 3 and 7 interact through H-bonds with the amino acid residues GLN-19, ASP-158, HIS-159 and TRP-177 from cruzipain at the catalytic site. Given the lack of therapeutic options to treat American trypanosomiasis, this work can serve as the basis for further studies that aim for the development of bufadienolides or their derivatives as drugs against Chagas disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Melanophryniscus fulvoguttatus is a small toad that inhabits the Cerrado, Atlantic Forest, and humid Chaco of South America. Due to its aposematic coloration and behavior, it is a species that may present chemical defenses such as alkaloids and a restricted diet similar to other species of the genus. Although it was described in the early 20th century, there is still little information on its natural history and ecology. Here, we described the diet, tested the sexual dimorphism, and calculated the fertility index of M. fulvoguttatus based on a sample of eight males and 21 females from a population within the Cerrado. Sexual dimorphism was assessed using 15 morphometric measures; diet was calculated as an index of relative importance by prey item and tested for sex differences; fertility was tested for relations between body size and the number of eggs; and we also estimated the reproductive investment. Our results demonstrate that this population's diet consisted mostly of ant species, with Pheidole radoszkowskii being the most important, followed by Crematogaster sp. and Cyphomyrmex transversus. Regarding sexual dimorphism, we observed that females were significantly larger than males, with a positive relationship between female size and the number of eggs. We did not find significant differences in the diets of males and females. Although the diet and reproductive aspects of M. fulvoguttatus are similar to those of its congeneric species, further studies are needed in order to address the relationship between the species diet and its chemical defenses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Natterjack toad (Epidalea calamita) is widely distributed in Europe, but it is in a vulnerable state across most of its distribution area, being protected in many countries. There are several cases of the Natterjack toad successfully reproducing in the laboratory, but no reproductive features in captivity have been presented yet for this species. Our work involved animals captured in nature (two pairs) in the vicinity of Brest, Belarus and grown in artificial conditions from eggs (15 pairs). In the laboratory, the toads reached sexual maturity at an age of two years. Reproduction was stimulated by injections of surfagon. It appeared possible to obtain offspring from all natural and 11 pairs of toads born in the laboratory. The fertility of females amounted to 1962–6996 eggs with a vitellus diameter of 0.93–1.65 mm. Before the exit of prelarvae, 0.03–57.21% eggs developed. The larval development lasted 47–69 days. The results obtained allow us to assert that, under artificial conditions, maturity was accelerated, and fertility increased. Conducting winter cooling before the reproductive period contributed to an increase in the thickness of the spawn cord, the diameter of the vitellus, and the sizes of juveniles hatching from eggs and at the beginning of exogenous nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The larval period in anurans is highly plastic. Even though larval period length and larval size have been the most studied characteristics showing intraspecific variability, other features such as morphology, behavior, food preferences and physiology have also been described as plastic. Metamorphic changes are triggered by thyroid and interrenal hormones, and environmental signals modulate the onset of metamorphosis via the hypothalamic–pituitary–interrenal axis. The South American bufonid toad Rhinella arenarum from nearby Buenos Aires City has a larval period of 30–120 days under the same environmental conditions. The goal of this study was to evaluate life‐history traits in tadpoles from different localities and potential morphological differences among tadpoles with different larval period length. For this purpose, we reared under natural conditions tadpoles from two different localities nearby Buenos Aires City and in three different years measured their size at the end of metamorphosis and recorded their larval period length. The external appearance, histo‐morphology and morphometry of the skin and kidney/interrenal complex were studied in metamorphs with short and long larval periods (SLP and LLP, respectively). We observed a larval period lasting 30–120 days in tadpoles from different localities or years. SLP metamorphs were smaller, darker, had less protruding eyes without eyelids, a thinner epidermis and fewer skin glands than LLP metamorphs. The secretion of skin glands from SLP tadpoles had acidic glycoconjugates. Kidney size was similar between LLP and SLP metamorphs, but the former had an adult‐like histomorphology. Interrenal gland in LLP early and late climax tadpoles had cells with a high nucleus/cell diameter ratio, a sign of highly active steroidogenic cells. Overall, these results show that intraspecific variability in size, skin and interrenal gland development is associated with differences in larval period length. Distinct skin gland number and secretion, along with distinct interrenal histology at late climax, could have physiological consequences in the post‐metamorphic life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We reported the current distribution of Leptophryne spp. in Gede Pangrango National Park. Leptophryne cruentata was recorded in Cibodas (Cikundul waterfall and Goa Lalay), Selabintana (Cibeureum Waterfall), and Goalpara (Rasta Waterfall), whereas Leptophryne borbonica was only reported from a creek at lowland forest of Bodogol. Goa Lalay and Rasta waterfall were explicitly reported as new distribution locations of Leptophryne cruentata. It was strictly found at a higher elevation usually within reach of waterfalls that generate substantial background noise, except in Cibodas in which Leptophryne cruentata can also be found in two noisy creeks located at a fairly great distance from waterfalls (100 - 170 meters). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diet is one of the most important dimensions of the trophic niche, contributing to understanding intra- and interspecific interactions in food webs. Amazophrynella teko was described in 2018, and given the scarcity of information about its feeding ecology, we describe here the diet of this species in a population from eastern Amazonia based on stomach flushing. We analyzed the stomach contents of 68 A. teko (18 juveniles, 13 females, and 37 males). We found 360 prey items from 23 prey categories from males (Shannon-Wiener index: H’ = 2.36, N = 29), 17 for females (H’ = 1.53, N = 12), and 14 for juveniles (H’ = 2.35, N = 11). Formicidae were the most abundant prey items (284 prey items), Myrmicinae were the most abundant subfamily, and Crematogaster was the most abundant genus in all age/sex groups. Females had a narrower niche amplitude (BA = 0.08) than juveniles (BA = 0.58) and males (BA = 0.21). Trophic niche overlap between males and females (Ojk = 0.92), and between males and juveniles (Ojk = 0.77), higher than the overlap between females and juveniles (Ojk = 0.55). The prey category accumulation curve, in relation to the number of stomachs flushed, did not reach an asymptote. The relationship between the SVL and JW of the toads with the volume of prey was not significant for males, females, and juveniles. The larger jaw width of females observed in our study may be related to the greater volume of prey they consumed. There were no significant differences among the diets for males, females, and juveniles based on the volumetric composition of prey. Amazophrynella teko feeds largely on ants but opportunistically will forage on other invertebrates such as spiders, beetles, and mites. The present study provides relevant information about the feeding ecology of A. teko, a poorly known species from north Brazil, eastern Brazilian Amazonia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anuran release calls are produced by females and males in response to mating attempts by other males. The efficiency of the release signal to initiate dismount ensures that amplexus is not prolonged, avoiding exposure to predation and increasing the time available for breeding opportunities. Convergent character displacement of release calls may facilitate interspecific communication. In this contribution, we described and compared the release calls of sexually active males of four endemic species of Cuban toads of the genus Peltophryne in allopatric and sympatric conditions, exploring possible evidence of convergent displacement in areas of sympatry. One of these species, Peltophryne peltocephala , is widely distributed in the Cuban archipelago, with contact areas with two other species of large toads. Convergent character displacement requires that the allopatric character states of the species are significantly different from each other, and the sympatric character states are not significantly different. Although significant differences were detected between pairs of different species, in terms of duration of call sequence, call duration, interval between calls and dominant frequency, we did not find a robust pattern consistent with the expected pattern of convergent displacement of acoustic characters. Almost all call variability of allopatric populations fell inside the variability of sympatric populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The craniofacial skeleton of vertebrates is a major innovation of the whole clade. Its development and composition requires a precisely orchestrated sequence of chondrification events which lead to a fully functional skeleton. Sequential information on the precise timing and sequence of embryonic cartilaginous head development are available for a growing number of vertebrates. This enables a more and more comprehensive comparison of the evolutionary trends within and among different vertebrate clades. This comparison of sequential patterns of cartilage formation enables insights into the evolution of development of the cartilaginous head skeleton. The cartilaginous sequence of head formation of three basal anurans (Xenopus laevis, Bombina orientalis, Discoglossus scovazzi) was investigated so far. This study investigates the sequence and timing of larval cartilaginous development of the head skeleton from the appearance of mesenchymal Anlagen until the premetamorphic larvae in the neobatrachian species Bufo bufo. Clearing and staining, histology, and 3D reconstruction enabled the tracking of 75 cartilaginous structures and the illustration of the sequential changes of the skull as well as the identification of evolutionary trends of sequential cartilage formation in the anuran head. The anuran viscerocranium does not chondrify in the ancestral anterior to posterior direction and the neurocranial elements do not chondrify in posterior to anterior direction. Instead, the viscerocranial and neurocranial development is mosaic‐like and differs greatly from the gnathostome sequence. Strict ancestral anterior to posterior developmental sequences can be observed within the branchial basket. Thus, this data is the basis for further comparative developmental studies of anuran skeletal development. Research highlights: The anuran viscerocranium develops mosaic‐like.Posterior neurocranial elements extend anteriorly and anterior elements extend posteriorly.Posterior to anterior growth of the parachordal and initial development of the lateral wall of the otic capsule are shared gnathostome features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We re-evaluate the taxonomic status of specimens of Rhinella collected from rainforests on the eastern Andean slopes and foothills of central Bolivia. The respective populations have been allocated to different nominal taxa, namely Rhinella fissipes and R. leptoscelis, in the past. By detailed morphological comparisons, including the type specimens of crucial taxa, as well as a phylogenetic analysis based on the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene, we here demonstrate that the focal populations represent a divergent lineage within the Rhinella veraguensis species group, being apparently closely related to R. rumbolli from northern Argentina, but only distantly related to R. leptoscelis, with which they share several morphological character states. Also, the specimens of the focal lineage differ by a unique combination of morphological character states from all known nominal species currently assigned to the R. veraguensis group. Consequently, we describe this lineage as a new species. We discuss the history of its changing taxonomic allocations and demonstrate that former conclusions were barely justified and wrong. We also provide a description of the osteology of this species using computer tomography (micro-CT). Furthermore, we discuss the status of the nominal taxon Bufo pleuropterus Schmidt, 1857, currently considered to represent a junior synonym of Rhinella margaritifera (Laurenti, 1768), and provide arguments for the specific distinctness of these two taxa. Consequently, we regard Rhinella pleuroptera (Schmidt, 1857) a valid species. Based on its external morphology, which is rather similar to that of R. inca, we speculate that R. pleuroptera is possibly related to species in the R. veraguensis group, although this remains in need of further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermal ecology of anurans in the Caatinga, Northeastern Brazil. Anurans regulate their body temperature through external heat sources. In this sense, the microhabitat used can influence this physiological process. Thus, the objective of this study was to verify the body temperature of anuran species in the Caatinga domain and to correlate the possible variations to the different microhabitats used. For this, active searches were carried out during the day and night shifts, between August 2019 and May 2021. The frogs were captured manually to measure the cloacal temperature and then released. Substrate and air temperatures were also checked for associations with body temperature. In total, 420 frogs were captured, and the body temperature was obtained from 147 individuals of five species in the rainy season (Leptodactylus macrosternum, Scinax x-signatus, Rhinella granulosa, Rhinella diptycha and Pithecopus gonzagai), and from 273 individuals of four species in the dry season (L. macrosternum, S. x-signatus, R. granulosa and R. diptycha). In general, the highest body temperature averages (28.4-29.3°C) were observed in the rainy season for L. macrosternum, R. granulosa and R. diptycha. The most preferred microhabitats of anurans were soil and water. Finally, even though an association between body temperature and air temperature was found, substrate temperature proved to be the most important source of thermal regulation for most anuran species investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morphological analysis of a polymelia case in Rhinella dorbignyi (Anura: Bufonidae). This note describes the morphology of a supernumerary left hind limb in an adult female of Rhinella dorbignyi found in Atalaya (Magdalena, Buenos Aires). The case was studied through radiographs of the specimen in life, and once dead, the morphological approach included dissection to observe the appendicular muscles and diaphanization with double staining to observe the skeleton. The notable features of the supernumerary limb are: (1) absence of finger I, (2) shorter length of all portions of the limb and less robustness than in a normal hind limb, (3) anomalous junction with the pelvic girdle by means of a well marked femoral head with limb-type features associated to bipedal gait, (4) femur without muscles, and (5) tibia and fibula completely fused in midline. In short, the supernumerary limb is a reduced duplication of the left hind limb. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Genomic signatures of local adaptation have been identified in many species but remain sparsely studied in amphibians. Here, we explored genome‐wide divergence within the Asiatic toad, Bufo gargarizans, to study local adaptation and genomic offset (i.e., the mismatch between current and future genotype‐environment relationships) under climate warming scenarios. We obtained high‐quality SNP data for 94 Asiatic toads from 21 populations in China to study spatial patterns of genomic variation, local adaptation, and genomic offset to warming in this wide‐ranging species. Population structure and genetic diversity analysis based on high‐quality SNPs revealed three clusters of B. gargarizans in the western, central‐eastern, and northeastern portions of the species' range in China. Populations generally dispersed along two migration routes, one from the west to the central‐east and one from the central‐east to the northeast. Both genetic diversity and pairwise FST were climatically correlated, and pairwise FST was also correlated with geographic distance. Spatial genomic patterns in B. gargarizans were determined by the local environment and geographic distance. Global warming will increase the extirpation risk of B. gargarizans.

We reported anomalies in three anuran species belonging to two families: Craugastoridae (Pristimantis gutturalis and P. chiastonotus), and Bufonidae (Rhinella castaneotica). All records were found in two conservation units, a well-preserved and protected area of the Amazonian rainforest in the state of Amapa, eastern Amazon. The anomalies detected were anophthalmia (characterized by the absence of one or both eyes) in P. gutturalis and P. chiastonotus, and brachydactyly (digit shortened) in R. castaneotica. Further ecotoxicological studies of anurans populations in protected areas are needed to investigate the causes of anomalies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Harlequin Toads (Bufonidae: Atelopus) are among the most diverse Neotropical amphibians, but 84% of the known species are threatened with extinction mainly due to the fungal disease chytridiomycosis. With no effective tools to mitigate chytridiomycosis in the wild being available, captive breeding is currently the only option to ensure the long-term survival of many Harlequin Toad species. However, the life history and ecology of most species is still largely unknown. Using spatially explicit capture-recapture data from 2005-2013, we studied breeding habitat use and reproductive phenology of the critically endangered Rancho Grande Harlequin Toad, Atelopus cruciger. This species is a seasonal breeder that reproduces exclusively during the dry season. Adult males and females, but also juveniles, migrate from the forest to the river at the beginning of the dry season and return to the forest as soon as the rainy season begins, although a few adult males may remain on the riverbank throughout the year. Despite these seasonal displacements, the toads return to the same locations on the riverbank every year. Both female and male adult toads exhibit a strong breeding site fidelity, occupying small areas (= 5 m2) along the river margins. Adults were mainly active on rocky substrate and vegetation during the day, with males occupying significantly more elevated spots closer to the stream than females. Male territories tend to overlap, but we observed no aggressive or territorial defence behaviour. We discuss the implications of habitat use and high site fidelity for in situ and ex situ conservation measures of this critically endangered toad. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Miyako toad, Bufo gargarizans miyakonis, is a subspecies endemic to the Miyako Islands of the Ryukyu Archipelago. The distribution of B. g. miyakonis is curious since no toads are found on other islands in the remaining part of the Ryukyu Archipelago. In this study, we conducted phylogenetic estimation and population genetic analyses using sequence data of the mitochondrial control region to clarify the phylogenetic position of B. g. miyakonis in the B. gargarizans species group and its population history. Results of phylogenetic analyses suggested that B. g. miyakonis was closely related to eastern populations of B. gargarizans and that there is incomplete lineage sorting among these populations. The divergence time between B. g. miyakonis and its closest lineages was estimated to be 0.54–0.75 Ma, the Middle Pleistocene, which was a little younger than the estimated value provided by the previous study. It is probable that the migration of the ancestor of B. g. miyakonis was strongly affected by the Middle Pleistocene glacial cycle. Population genetics analyses suggested that this subspecies experienced a rapid population size expansion, and that there is moderate genetic differentiation of sub-populations. Although the B. g. miyakonis population has a relatively high-level genetic diversity, it is also unique, having a significant number of accumulated mutations following rapid demographic expansion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the diet of Rhinella marina by comparing the availability of food in its environment with its actual diet, and verify whether there is a relationship between the size and volume of its prey and the size of the toad and the width of its mouth. A total of 43 toads (95.55%) presented food items in the stomach. In general, R. marina feeds on the most abundant items in the environment with a niche amplitude of B=0.055. Hymenoptera was the most representative prey numerically. On the other hand, Diplopoda was the most representative prey in volume and frequency. Considering the food importance index (Ix), Diplopoda (Ix=0.47) was the most important part of the diet of R. marina. The relationships between the biometric characteristics of R. marina and its prey are significant with a low coefficient of determination. This result demonstrates that larger individuals predate smaller and lower volume prey, such as ants, and on large prey such as Diplopoda. In general, the diet of R. marina is specialized and is composed of arthropods that occur in greater abundance in nature, but mainly of Diplopoda and Hymenoptera, without selectivity regarding the size of the prey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this scientific work are exposed data with reference to the description of the diversity of the helminthic fauna of ecaudata amphibians from Ranidae and Bufonidae families, and the determination of its role as vectors for various groups of helminths to wild and domestic animals. As result of helminthological investigations during 2020-2022 years, 17 helminths species (secernentea, trematoda, palaeacanthocephala) was established: H. variegatus Rudolphi, 1819; G. varsoviensis Sinitzin, 1905;C.urniger Rudolphi, 1819; P. robusta Szidat, 1928; P. brumpti Buttner, 1951; P. confusus Looss, 1894; T. excavata Rudolphi, 1803; D. subclavatus Pallas, 1760; O. ranae Froelich, 1791 S. falconis Szidat, 1928; H. cylindracea Zeder, 1800; P. medians Olsson, 1876, C. ornata Dujardin, 1845; O. filiformis Goeze, 1782; I. neglecta Diesing, 1851; S. lupi Rudolphi, 1809; A. ranae Schrank, 1788). Of the 17 helminth species detected in amphibians, a special importance is attributed to the presence of 4 species of medical-veterinary importance helminths (Spirocerca lupi, Codonocephalus urniger, Parastrigea robusta, Strigea falconis), which can cause sterility, parastrigeosis and strigeosis in birds, as well as spirocercosis in dogs, foxes, wolves and occasionally in goat, horse, cattle and other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We use mitochondrial and nuclear gene sequences and morphology to re-evaluate the taxonomy of Bufo vertebralis grindleyi Poynton, 1963, currently a junior synonym of Poyntonophrynus fenoulheti (Hewitt & Methuen, 1912); and morphology and advertisement calls to re-evaluate the status of Bufo jordani Parker, 1936, currently a junior synonym of Poyntonophrynus hoeschi (Ahl, 1934). According to our results including comparisons to other congeners, we elevate both taxa to full species as Poyntonophrynus grindleyi (Poynton, 1963) and Poyntonophrynus jordani (Parker, 1936). Our new P. grindleyi record is the first record of the species for Mozambique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early detection of predators is fundamental for the survival of the prey. Predator detection can occur by perception of the chemical substances released by predators or injured conspecifics, granting prey the opportunity to avoid the attack. However, overreacting to cues can generate false alarm reactions that result in fruitless energetic costs. Given that chemical cues in natural habitats rarely occur singly, individuals can benefit from obtaining information from multiple sources, such as the combined chemical cues from predators and conspecifics. We experimentally tested the movement reaction of cane toad (Rhinella marina) tadpoles when in contact with isolated chemical cues from a conspecific, a predator (dragonfly larvae), and the combination of these two substances. We quantified duration of swimming activity before and after the exposure to the chemical cues and compared it to a control group. A significant reduction in swimming activity was only observed when the tadpoles were exposed to the combination of both cue types. Our results suggest that the tadpoles can recognise the chemical cues from conspecifics and predators, but a behavioural response is only elicited when both stimuli are detected simultaneously. We suggest that behavioural change in response to predation threat in R. marina is a compromise between early detection of predators and avoidance of unnecessary energetic expenditures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Convergent evolution has been shown to be a prominent feature of anuran evolutionary history. Studying the morphological pathways involved in the evolution of a convergent character allows us to test whether deterministic or contingent forces drive the evolution of characters. Here, we have assessed the morphological pathways associated with arboreal habits in species of six families of anurans (Hylidae, Eleutherodactylidae, Strabomantidae, Centrolenidae, Bufonidae and Hemiphractidae) through a comparative analysis of 19 phenotypic characters related to climbing ability. All species showed differences in the assessed characters, exhibiting variations in the distribution of their states and different ranges in all limb lengths. These variations implied a wide distribution across the morphospace as defined by a non-metric multidimensional scaling analysis (NMDS), with Rhinella paraguas (Bufonidae) being the most distinctive species, presenting unique characters such as the absence of intercalary elements, adhesive pads, subarticular tubercles and interphalangealis muscles of the hands. Our findings demonstrate that the morphological mechanisms involved in climbing ability of the ten species are different, suggesting distinct morphological pathways. Consequently, we advocate that historical contingency has an essential role in the evolution of arboreal habits among the species studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genomic signatures of local adaptation have been identified in many species but remain sparsely studied in amphibians. Here, we explored genome‐wide divergence within the Asiatic toad, Bufo gargarizans, to study local adaptation and genomic offset (i.e., the mismatch between current and future genotype‐environment relationships) under climate warming scenarios. We obtained high‐quality SNP data for 94 Asiatic toads from 21 populations in China to study spatial patterns of genomic variation, local adaptation, and genomic offset to warming in this wide‐ranging species. Population structure and genetic diversity analysis based on high‐quality SNPs revealed three clusters of B. gargarizans in the western, central‐eastern, and northeastern portions of the species' range in China. Populations generally dispersed along two migration routes, one from the west to the central‐east and one from the central‐east to the northeast. Both genetic diversity and pairwise FST were climatically correlated, and pairwise FST was also correlated with geographic distance. Spatial genomic patterns in B. gargarizans were determined by the local environment and geographic distance. Global warming will increase the extirpation risk of B. gargarizans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Sesamoids are generally regarded as structures that are not part of the tetrapod body plan. The presence of a palmar sesamoid is assumed to serve as a distribution point for the forces of the flexor digitorum communis muscle to the flexor tendons of the digits, which are embedded in the flexor plate. It has been considered that the palmar sesamoid is present in most anuran groups, and it has been suggested that it acts by inhibiting the closing of the palm, preventing grasping. Typical arboreal anuran groups lack a palmar sesamoid and flexor plate, a pattern shared with other tetrapod groups, which can retain a reduced sesamoid and flexor plate. We focus on the anatomical structure of the Rhinella group, which includes species that present an osseous palmar sesamoid and climb bushes or trees to avoid depredation or escape dangerous situations, and can exhibit scansorial and arboreal behaviors. We also add data on the bony sesamoids of 170 anuran species to study the anatomy and evolution of the osseous palmar sesamoid within this amphibian group. Our objective is to bring an overview of the osseous palmar sesamoid in anurans, unveiling the relationship between this element of the manus, its phylogeny, and the anuran habitat use. Methods. Skeletal whole-mount specimens of Rhinella were cleared and double-dyed to describe the sesamoid anatomy and related tissues. We review and describe the palmar sesamoid of 170 anuran species from CT images downloaded from Morphosource.org, representing almost all Anuran families. We performed an standard ancestral state reconstruction by optimizing two selected characters (osseous palmar sesamoid presence, distal carpal palmar surface) along with the habitat use of the sampled taxa, using parsimony with Mesquite 3.7. Results. Our primary finding is that sesamoid optimization in the anuran phylogeny revealed that its presence is associated with certain clades and not as widespread as previously anticipated. Additionally, we will also be delving into other important outcomes of our study that are relevant to those working in the field of anuran sesamoids. The osseous palmar sesamoid is present in the clade Bufonidae-Dendrobatidae-Leptodactylidae-Brachicephalidae that we named as PS clade, and also in the archeobatrachian pelobatoid Leptobranchium' all strongly terrestrial and burrowing species, though with exceptions. The osseous palmar sesamoid is always present in Bufonidae, but varies in form and size, depending on the mode that they use their manus, such as in the Rhinella margaritifera which has a cylindrical one and also grasping abilities that involve closing the manus. The scattered presence of the bony palmar sesamoid among anuran clades raises the question whether this sesamoid can be present with a different tissular composition in other groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anurans are capable of changing their activity time to enhance their foraging. The present study investigated the diet of the Bufotes sitibundus. The 85 toads examined in the present study had consumed a total of 2.189 preys from the three phyla, Arthropoda, Mollusca, and Annelida. Insects from the arthropods phylum constituted the primary food items consumed by the green toads at 94.97%. The Formicidae family was the most essential food item for the eastern green toads. The green toad prefers nocturnal hunting and terrestrial insects out of the water environment, and a direct relationship was observed between the size of toads and the number of food items they consumed. Statistical results indicated that male and female toads had no significant difference in terms of diet. The number of males in the reproductive habitat exceeded females by far, which implies sex-biased migration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual dimorphism, i.e., differences in morphology between sexes of a species caused by intersexual differences in the strength or direction of sexual or natural selection, is prevalent throughout the animal kingdom. Contrary to differences in body size, little is known about sexual shape dimorphism in anurans. Here we investigated intersexual shape differences in Bufo verrucosissimus (Pallas, 1814) by taking 27 linear measurements to characterize body morphology of 23 males and 23 females. Relative to their overall body size, males had longer limbs and larger eyes, while females displayed larger parotoid glands and had wider heads. We speculate that these intersexual differences may have arisen due to differences in natural and sexual selection regimes acting on males and females, especially during foraging, mate searching, or intrasexual competition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding climatic variables to determine the ecological niche is crucial to explaining species distributions and revealing how sister species coexist within a geographic area. Here, we used ecological niche modeling to determine the ecological niche patterns of two toad species in Türkiye: Bufo bufo and Bufo verrucosissimus. Thus, we tested the ecological niche divergence and similarity between these species. In our results, the potential distribution of B. verrucosissimus showed high suitability throughout all Caucasus hotspots, and this suitability has been found even along the middle and western coast of Türkiye, but suitability was found to be very weak in the southern part of Türkiye. For B. bufo, the distribution pattern indicated high suitability along the Black Sea and Mediterranean coasts of Türkiye, but this suitability was low throughout Caucasus hotspots. Furthermore, we found that among B. bufo and B. verrucosissimus, the niches are not identical, but this situation is different in the background test. Therefore, we suggested that although there is niche conservatism between the two sister species, this pattern is caused by geographic barriers, not climatic parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Dendrophryniscus belongs to the family Bufonidae and includes 16 species of Neotropical frogs endemic to the Atlantic Forest. Most species of the genus have bromeligenous habits, while some species use temporary pools for reproduction. The genus has many similar species, making specific identification based solely on adult morphology difficult. Therefore, additional information such as natural history, larval morphology, and molecular and acoustic data would contribute to better diagnosis of congeneric species. We collected data on Dendrophryniscus haddadi during routine monitoring between January 2013 and March 2022 in the non-governmental organization (NGO) Projeto Dacnis private reserve in Ubatuba, São Paulo, Brazil. In this study, we present novel natural history information about the species, such as habitat and hydric resource use, colour patterns, a predation event, reproductive biology including visual display, amplexus, number of eggs, and parental care, along with a description of D. haddadi tadpoles, which will be helpful for diagnosing tadpoles of different species in the genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]