Modern Amphibians: Anura Reproductive Strategies

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms related to the reproductive strategies and characteristics of modern amphibians, specifically focusing on the Anura order.

Explosive Breeder

A type of breeder in Anura where reproduction occurs in a short, intense period, often lasting only a few days, and typically in ephemeral aquatic habitats.

Prolonged Breeder

A type of breeder in Anura characterized by a breeding season that may last several months, where males establish territories and compete for females.

Amplexus

A mating position in amphibians where the male clasps the female to facilitate reproduction.

Nuptial Spines

Specialized spines developed by male amphibians, such as the Smoky Jungle Frog, to hold onto females during amplexus.

Foam Nest

A protective structure built by some frogs, like the Tungara frog, made from bubbles that help protect and hydrate their eggs.

Vocalizations

Sounds produced by male anurans during mating to attract females, which can include pitch variations and call length.

Direct Development

A reproductive strategy where the offspring develop directly into juvenile forms without undergoing a free-living tadpole stage.

Tadpole Competition

The intense competition among tadpoles for resources, which can affect their survival rates.

Skin Brooding

A reproductive strategy where the female or male carries fertilized eggs on their skin until they hatch, as seen in the Surinam Toad.

Gastric Brooding

An extinct reproductive strategy in which a female would ingest fertilized eggs, allowing them to develop in her stomach, as seen in the Platypus frog.

Calling Efficiency

The balance between the energetic costs of vocalizations in male frogs and their effectiveness in attracting mates.

Egg Predation

The act of predators consuming amphibian eggs, which poses a significant threat to reproductive success in anurans.