Patterns of Hydroregulation in Representatives from Three Anuran Families: Anaxyrus, Lithobates and Pseudacris
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Authors
Pilikian, Tia
Issue Date
2011
Type
Thesis
Language
Keywords
Amphibian , Hydroregulation
Alternative Title
Abstract
Amphibian homeostatic processes such as thermoregulation and hydroregulation
and their effects on physiological parameters have been extensively studied, but the
inherent control of hydroregulation as a function of itself remains relatively
unknown. This thesis addresses patterns and preferences in hydration levels of
three species of anurans with different lifestyles and habits. The aquatic American
Bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeiana), semi-terrestrial Pacific chorus frog (Pseudacris
sierra), and terrestrial western toad (Anaxyrus boreas) were tested in the laboratory
for patterns and preferences in the maintenance of body hydration levels. L.
catesbeiana and P. sierra preferred high hydration levels ranging from 85%-99%
and 83%-99% respectively, which are consistent with their propensity to remain
near water, even during foraging. A. boreas preferred a wide range of hydrations of
62%-99%, suggesting that routine activities away from water including hibernation
and active foraging allow western toads to tolerate significantly low hydration levels.
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In Copyright(All Rights Reserved)