Limb regenerative capacity of four species of Japanese frogs of the families Hylidae and Ranidae.

Abstract

The regenerative capacity of limbs was investigated by amputation of limbs at the zeugopodium in postmetamorphic froglets and adults of various sizes in four species of Japanese frogs, all of which showed some regeneration at these ages. In Hyla arborea japonica and Rana brevipoda porosa most young froglets regenerated their limbs well; however, the rate of regeneration decreased with the age of amputation, and the limb became nonregenerative in adults. Limbs of adults in Rana rugosa and R. japonica, on the other hand, exhibited good regeneration. All of the regenerates in the four species were heteromorphic, consisting histologically of well-developed cartilaginous rods surrounded by connective tissue and skin. Limited development of muscle was apparent in regenerates of the three ranid species. The relations between body size, innervation of limbs, and regenerative capacity are discussed.