Abstract
Females of the hylid genus Gastrotheca carry developing eggs in a completely covered brood pouch on their backs. In our laboratory the birth of 76 tadpoles from a single, brooding G. riobambae female was observed. Development of the tadpoles, onset of metamor- phosis (94% had by 30 days), formation of the brood pouch (underdeveloped after 150 days), and initiation of calling (after 180 days) were all followed and recorded in our lab-born clutch. Froglets first displayed two distinct color morphs, which became similar with age. Coloration of the tadpoles was not influenced by changes in background color. Treatment with thyroxine (10-7M) of 6 animals immediately after birth stimulated metamorphosis within 4 days, whereas 6 untreated animals failed to transform. Finally, this account examines many aspects of the successful care of young anurans in captivity.
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