Prey capture kinematics of horned frogs (Anura: Ceratophryidae)

Abstract

Horned frogs, members of the Ceratophryidae family, encompass a group of anurans varying in sizes and behavior yet unified by morphological and behavioral traits enabling them to adopt a megalophagous diet. Although the group has been the focus of numerous studies, our understanding of its feeding behavior remains limited. In this study, we characterize the feeding mechanism in five species representing the three extant genera of ceratophryid anurans, both in terrestrial and aquatic environments. We also explore the ability of Chacophrys pierottii to adjust feeding behavior based on prey type. Our findings show that all species are capable of wide mouth openings, displaying an asymmetric feeding cycle. While tongue usage is the primary method for capturing prey on land, ceratophryids may use their forelimbs to manipulate prey into their mouths, exhibiting various behavioral patterns. Chacophrys pierottii shows flexibility in feeding kinematics and is also capable of some modulation on feeding in response to prey properties.