Redescription of the tadpole of Leptodactylus rhodomystax (Anura: Leptodactylidae) with natural history notes

Abstract

The tadpole of Leptodactylus rhodomystax is described based on individuals in several stages of development. We compare them with other tadpoles of the Leptodactylus pentadactylus group and three other sympatric species with similar morphology and color patterns. We also provide comments on spawning sites, clutch size, and the distribution of tadpoles in ponds located in a 64 km 2 study area. The tadpole of L. rhodomystax differs from all species of the L. pentadactylus group (except L. flavopictus) in total length and in having uniform black color. It differs in relation to the LTRF (2(2)/3) of all species except L lithonaetes and L. rhodonotus. Leptodactylus rhodomystax is generally only found in the western watershed of our study area. Foam nests were deposited between shrubs, roots, and fallen tree trunks near temporary ponds. Tadpoles were free-swimming, benthic, and found in the leaf litter of ponds between January and May. The tadpoles are intra- and inter-specific predators of anuran eggs and tadpoles. Copyright © 2007 Magnolia Press.