Natural history of Hylodes perere Silva & Benmaman, 2008 (Anura, Hylodidae) in the Serra Negra da Mantiqueira, Atlantic Forest of Brazil: microhabitat, sexual dimorphism, diet and distribution

Abstract

The Atlantic Forest (AF) is an ecoregion considered of extreme importance for global biodiversity, partly due to its high number of endemic species. The large amount of altitudinal variation, mountainous complexes and climatic factors associated with naturally fragmented environments favour high levels of biodiversity and endemism for various groups, with an emphasis on frogs. However, several species remain without enough information available regarding their conservation status and natural history. Hylodes perere has diurnal and nocturnal habits, and is classified as ‘data deficient’ like many other endemic species of the AF. As such, in this study we aimed to: (i) describe the use of microhabitat by H. perere, (ii) verify the existence of sexual dimorphism based on morphometric measurements, and (iii) describe which food items are present in the species’ diet. We also provide comments on the species’ distribution. Our data show that males and females have the same most used microhabitat (humid soil) and different in the use of the second most used microhabitats, with males being found mostly above stone surfaces and females using rocky crevices. Females were larger than males in body length (SVL), but males have thicker arms and forearm. The diet of males and females is similar for H. perere, composed of insects, arachnids and crustaceans, suggesting a similar foraging strategy for both sexes. Currently, H. perere, is distributed only in Serra Negra da Mantiqueira and Serra da Bandeira, in the Mantiqueira Complex, an area approximately 33 km long. Apparently, it has a relatively stable population in the Serra Negra da Mantiqueira, but it needs attention due to increasing habitat loss and fragmentation in the AF. Our study provides new data on natural history for the species, which may help in the development of future conservation and management strategies in situ. © 2021 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.