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8 June 2020 Behavioral Changes in Tadpoles of the Antillean White Lipped Frog (Leptodactylus albilabris) in the Presence of a Predator: Habitat Use Preference and Activity Levels
Diana C. López-Hernández, Aura Y. Muñiz-Torres, Kenneth X. Rodríguez-Rivera, Alberto R. Puente-Rolón
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Abstract

This study is based on the behavioral responses of Leptodactylus albilabris tadpoles, a widely abundant frog native to Puerto Rico. We evaluated changes in habitat preference and activity levels in the presence of a predator (fish). Tadpoles were collected and allocated to one of three treatments: no fish predator, one fish (Astronotus ocellatus), and two fish. Results showed a significant decrease in activity levels of tadpoles and change in microhabitat use in the presence of a predator. However, there was no significant difference in tadpole activity when the second predator was added. The preferred habitat in the presence of a predator was leaf litter, even though L. albilabris tadpoles are benthic and usually favor hiding in the sediment. The larval stage of the anuran life cycle is the most vulnerable, and these changes in behavior increase the probability of escaping predators to reach metamorphosis and finally reproduce.

© Copyright 2020 by the College of Arts and Sciences of the University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez
Diana C. López-Hernández, Aura Y. Muñiz-Torres, Kenneth X. Rodríguez-Rivera, and Alberto R. Puente-Rolón "Behavioral Changes in Tadpoles of the Antillean White Lipped Frog (Leptodactylus albilabris) in the Presence of a Predator: Habitat Use Preference and Activity Levels," Caribbean Journal of Science 50(1), 132-138, (8 June 2020). https://doi.org/10.18475/cjos.v50i1.a14
Published: 8 June 2020
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