Diet and endoparasites of Rana grandocula (Amphibia, Ranidae) and Limnonectes magnus (Amphibia, Dicroglossidae) in Mt. Sambilikan, Diwata Range, Agusan del Sur, Philippines
Journal Title: Advances in Environmental Sciences - International Journal of the Bioflux Society - Year 2012, Vol 4, Issue 3
Abstract
Anurans are recognized as one of the most threatened fauna on the planet, yet poor knowledge on the basic biology of these species is said to impede proper conservation efforts. The Philippines may have one of the most unique anuran faunas in the world, however studies on the feeding habits and endoparasites of anuran species are still scarce. This study examined the diet and endoparasites of Rana grandocula and Limnonectes magnus using gut content analysis on available voucher specimens: L. magnus (21) and R. grandocula (16), collected in the forest of Mt. Sambilikan, Diwata Range, Agusan del Sur, Philippines. Nine food items were identified including plant debris observed in L. magnus. Results on diet examination indicated the frogs’ high dependence on eight orders of invertebrate fauna dominated by Orthoptera. Niche overlap between the two species was demonstrated as well as new records on being intermediate hosts to the cestode, Diphyllobothrium latum and nematodes. L. magnus showed higher intensity of infection for cestode while nematode infection was higher for R.grandocula. Sex and body size were non-determining factors for infection in both species except for the cestode, D. latum which showed a significant association with sex (p=0.049) in R. grandocula, with male frogs showing higher infection rates than females despite their significantly smaller size (p=0.013). Diet and endoparasites were found to be interrelated, as well as to the habitats of the two species.
Authors and Affiliations
Karyl Fabricante, Olga Nuñeza
Keywords
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