Understanding the toad code: Behavioural responses of cane toad (Chaunus marinus) larvae and metamorphs to chemical cues

摘要: Abstract  Larvae of many anuran taxa display strong behavioural responses to chemical cues, including alarm signals from injured conspecific tadpoles. We exposed tadpoles and metamorphs an Australian population the invasive cane toad (Chaunus[Bufo] marinus) a range stimuli quantified their both in laboratory field. Filtered fluids containing scent cues crushed conspecifics elicited avoidance tadpoles, whereas other (e.g. food, native-range fish or urodele predators, thermal stimuli) did not. Apparent aggregation response proved be artifact tank design, was indirect consequence those cues. Field trials confirmed that free-ranging avoided conspecifics, suggesting chemicals inducing this might provide opportunity develop targeted control methods for species.