A Common Marking Technique Affects Tadpole Behavior and Risk of Predation

摘要: In many studies, it is necessary for researchers to mark individual animals later identification. It often assumed in the interpretation of these studies that marks have no effects on biology animals. This assumption insufficiently tested, and, when is, coarse assessments negative are used, such as survival and growth under simplified laboratory conditions. We examined consequences a common larval amphibian marking technique (staining with methylene blue) wood frog tadpole behavior an ecologically realistic scenario (predation). measured number behavioral variables, baseline conditions presence olfactory cues predator, marked unmarked tadpoles. then exposed pairs tadpoles (one one unmarked) two predators tested susceptibility predation. found suppressed increase movement rate typically occurred (unmarked) predator cues. Marked were significantly more likely be captured by predators, effect could not attributed this difference rate. These results raise concern about use staining method highlight need involving thoroughly address any relevant may subjects.