Variation in age at metamorphosis across a latitudinal gradient for the tailed frog, Ascaphus truei
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Abstract
Tailed frogs (Ascaphus truei) occur in permanent, cold streams in northwestern North America. Their tadpoles reportedly undergo metamorphosis after 2-4 years. Coastal populations that we examined transformed in 2 yr from the Olympic peninsula in Washington to northern Oregon, but in 1 yr from central Oregon to northern California. One inland site in northern California had a 2-yr period. Age at metamorphosis was consistent over different years. We suggest that total length and developmental stage accurately define cohorts for larval Ascaphus. Hind-leg length indicates whether metamorphs are a separate age class from tadpoles. Age at metamorphosis (1-4 yr) appears to reflect broad differences in climatic conditions. However, at a regional scale, variation is low and suggests a lack of sensitivity to local environmental conditions. This may be due to seasonal constraints on the time when metamorphosis occurs (late summer).
Suggested Citation
Bury, R.B., Adams, M.J., 1999, Variation in age at metamorphosis across a latitudinal gradient for the tailed frog, Ascaphus truei: Herpetologica, v. 55, no. 2, p. 283-291.
| Publication type | Article |
|---|---|
| Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
| Title | Variation in age at metamorphosis across a latitudinal gradient for the tailed frog, Ascaphus truei |
| Series title | Herpetologica |
| Volume | 55 |
| Issue | 2 |
| Year Published | 1999 |
| Language | English |
| Publisher | Allen Press |
| Contributing office(s) | Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center |
| Description | 9 p. |
| First page | 283 |
| Last page | 291 |