Photic and non-photic regulation of growth, development, and metamorphosis in giant tree frog (Rhacophorus maximus) tadpoles

Abstract

Amphibians are seasonal breeders living in seasonal environments having time constraints to achieve their annual life history states. Their survival is strongly dependent on successful timing of certain critical life history decisions. Larval amphibian development, growth, and metamorphosis are strongly time-limited due to variations in the seasonal factors. Photoperiod influences wide range of physiological processes in seasonal breeder. Being ectothermic, temperature may also play critical role in development of amphibian larvae. Food also acts as an ultimate factor in many organisms. Most studies of rearing conditions on growth, development, and metamorphosis of amphibian’s tadpoles have been focused on laboratory species; genus Xenopus. Less is known about other seasonally breeding amphibians. In present study, we addressed the effects of photic (light quality) and non-photic cues (temperature and food quality) on growth, development and metamorphosis of giant tree frog (Rhacophorus maximus). Three experiments have been performed. In experiment one effect of light quality (light wavelength), in experiment two effect of food quality and in experiment three effect of temperature on growth, development, and metamorphosis of giant tree frog tadpoles were studied. Our results suggest that light and food quality and high temperature promotes faster growth, development, and metamorphosis in R. maximus tadpoles.