Ten new records of anomalies for eight species of anurans – amphibians from Honduras and Colombia

Abstract

ABSTRACT In recent decades, there has been a significant increase in reported anomalies among amphibians worldwide, especially malformations. These anomalies not only signify a decline in the quality of their habitats but also hold special significance among anuran species as vital indicators of ecosystem health. Our study presents ten previously undocumented cases of anomalies within eight anuran species found in Honduras and Colombia. These species include Ameerega bilinguis, A. hahneli and A. ingeri (Dendrobatidae), Craugastor sp. (Craugastoridae), Engystomops pustulosus (Leptodactylidae), Incilius valliceps (Bufonidae), Lithobates maculatus (Ranidae), and Smilisca baudinii (Hylidae). The observed anomalies encompass a range of abnormalities, including a protuberant tumor (1), adactyly (1), amely (2), anophthalmy (1), brachydactyly (1), ectrodactyly (1), ectromely (5), and phocomely (1), which affect the mobility and vision of these individuals. While the root causes may differ, we suspect that pollution stemming from agricultural and urban activities in the observed areas could be a contributing factor. However, we do not dismiss the possibility of other physicochemical or biological stressors.