Evidence of phoresy by leeches (Hirudinoidea) on Rhinella abei (Anura: Bufonidae) in the Atlantic Rainforest in the state of Santa Catarina, southern Brazil

摘要: May. Abstract. In the Atlantic Rainforest of Parque Estadual da Serra do Tabuleiro, state Santa Catarina, southern Brazil, we found Rhinella abei (Bufonidae) infested by leeches (Hirudinoidea). We captured 27 toads on margin a lagoon both inside and outside water in survey carried out during one night, 13 which had total 30 (mean intensity infestation = 2.3 ± 1.3). did not observe wounds, scars and/or hemorrhages caused exam- ined, no hemorrhaging after removal leeches, removed from were empty blood. This evidence led us to theorize that parasitizing but phoretic relationship. The dorsal ventral surfaces (13 each) predominantly toads' axils followed back thighs. average snout-vent length was 69.2 5.3 mm their body mass 27.1 6.9 g. number toad related its or mass. are unaware any previous records using anurans as dispersal agents, suggested present study.