Urban plums and toads: do fleshy fruits affect the post-metamorphic growth of amphibians?

摘要: Background The main aim of the study was to analyse influence fleshy fruits (plums) on post-metamorphic growth and feeding behaviour green toad Bufotes viridis. We tested following two hypotheses: (1) juveniles are characterised by faster in conditions involving fallen plums Prunus cerasifera due associated presence more varied food such as invertebrates; (2) toads exhibit active fruits. Methods A total 120 fresh metamorphs were randomly assigned one four groups: experimental groups with other controls (without fruits). Each group kept an enclosure which wild invertebrates had free access. individual measured for snout-vent length (mm) body mass (g) every day 30 days. In order determine whether toads, number hidden (under artificial shelter) individuals also noted. Results results showed that from both enclosures rapid than control treatments. Simultaneously, fruits, greater species richness observed. No differences noted between plums. Discussion Fleshy upon falling, attract many types thus they may represent good dietary supplements amphibian metamorphs. Therefore, fruit trees close a breeding site might influences amphibians, but not their behaviour. insects seems favour occurrence populations, is particularly important, since, political social pressure, numbers currently being reduced. To our knowledge, no previous has investigated potential anurans.