Description of a New Reproductive Mode in Leptodactylus (Anura, Leptodactylidae), with a Review of the Reproductive Specialization toward Terrestriality in the Genus
The genus Leptodactylus provides an example among anurans in which there is an evident tendency toward terrestrial reproduction. Herein we describe a new reproductive mode for the frog Leptodactylus podicipinus, a member of the “melanonotus” group. This new reproductive mode represents one of the intermediate steps from the most aquatic to the most terrestrial modes reported in the genus. Three reproductive modes were previously recognized for the genus Leptodactylus. However, based on our data, and on several studies on Leptodactylus species that have been published since the last reviews, we propose a new classification, with the addition of two modes for the genus.Abstract
(A) Dorsal and (B) lateral views of a male of Leptodactylus podicipinus calling inside an excavated basin (Corumbá, Mato Grosso do Sul, South Pantanal, Brazil). (B) Note that leaves function as a roof for the basin. Drawn from photographs
Schematic representation of sequential steps of the reproductive modes in the genus Leptodactylus, from the most aquatic to the most terrestrial. (1) Eggs in foam nest on top of water; tadpoles in lentic water, (2) eggs in foam nest in depressions close to water; tadpoles in lentic water, (3) eggs in foam nest in water-filled basins excavated by males; tadpoles in lentic water, (4) eggs in foam nest in subterranean chambers constructed by males; tadpoles in lentic water, (5) eggs in foam nest in burrows; larval development in the foam nest inside the burrows. New steps proposed for the genus Leptodactylus since Heyer (1969) are (3) and (5)