Variation in reproductive parameters of Rhinella arenarum (Hensel, 1867) (Anura: Bufonidae) between the reproductive and post-reproductive periods

Abstract

We compared reproductive parameters of Rhinella arenarum in a wetland of the Monte in Argentina during reproductive and post-reproductive seasons. Individuals were collected at random, monthly from November 2001 to October 2002. August through November was considered the reproductive period, and December through April was considered the post-reproductive period. Of the 116 adults, 75 were males and 41 were females. The reproductive parameters measured included body mass, fat body mass, number of mature ova, ova size, and testicular volume. There were significant differences between the reproductive and post-reproductive periods in females for body mass, fat body mass, and number of mature ova. Likewise, males also had significant differences between these periods for body mass and fat body mass. Apparently, R. arenarum has an opportunistic and continuous reproductive strategy. Entering dormancy with large fat bodies and testes in apparent spermatogenesis allows males to reproduce immediately after emerging in the spring. However, females have mature but fewer ova during this period, which is a reproductive feature shared by most temperate amphibians. Our data, and the primarily tropical distribution of R. arenarum, suggest that this species recently invaded the temperate region wherein males retained acyclic reproductive activity and females, owing to their higher reproductive costs, have evolved cyclic reproduction.