Reproductive activity of Adenomera aff. hylaedactyla (Anura: Leptodactylidae) in a coastal area of Brazil

Abstract

We conducted studies on the reproductive ecology of an undescribed species, here referred to asAdenomeraaff.hylaedactyla, in São Gonçalo do Amarante, Ceará, Brazil. Active sampling took place over a whole year, while searches for underground chambers were also made every two weeks during one reproductive season. The reproductive pattern was seasonal, with breeding occurring only in wetter months (January to May) and peak activity in April and mainly at night. Calling activity of males was influenced by air humidity, temperature and rainfall. The species showed a reproductive pattern consistent with that described for the genusAdenomera, whose main features of reproduction are underground chambers and foam nests.Adenomeraaff.hylaedactylahas no aquatic stage of tadpole development, consistent with reproductive mode 32, which encompases foam nest construction in subterranean chambers and complete development of endotrophic tadpoles in the chambers. These natural history data not only contribute to the understanding of reproductive strategies in anurans, but also provide information for developing effective conservation strategies.