The use of ephemeral reproductive sites by the explosive breeding toad Melanophryniscus rubriventris (Anura: Bufonidae): is it a predator cue mediated behavior?

Abstract

Amphibians detect quality signals when selecting reproduction sites. We hypothesize that Melanophryniscus rubriventris, an explosive breeding toad that reproduces in small, ephemeral water bodies, is able to select sites without predators. We performed a field experiment simulating oviposition sites, two with predators (tadpoles and bugs) and one control. Contrary to our expectations, we obtained no differences in the number of eggs deposited. We also performed other experiment to test the capability of M. rubriventris tadpoles to detect potential predators. Tadpoles could not detect predators, as other species did. Melanophryniscus rubriventris is selecting spawning sites following other signals, not predation risk. Identifying selection cues is crucial to protect species that depend on threatened habitats.