An Examination of Morphometric Variations in a Neotropical Toad Population (Proceratophrys cristiceps, Amphibia, Anura, Cycloramphidae)
2008

Morphometric Variations in a Neotropical Toad Population

Sample size: 79 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Kleber S. Vieira, Cristina Arzabe, Malva I. M. Hernández, W. L. S. Vieira

Primary Institution: Universidade Federal da Paraíba

Hypothesis

This study examines the intrapopulational variation in the Neotropical toad species Proceratophrys cristiceps.

Conclusion

The study found significant morphological differences between two distinct morphotypes of Proceratophrys cristiceps.

Supporting Evidence

  • Two morphotypes of Proceratophrys cristiceps were identified based on significant differences in eye-nostril distance.
  • Statistical analyses showed that the common morphotype is generally larger than the yellow morphotype.
  • Geometric morphometrics provided a detailed understanding of the shape differences between the two morphotypes.

Takeaway

Scientists looked at two types of toads and found they looked different from each other, which helps us understand how they might be different species.

Methodology

The study used univariate and multivariate statistics, including traditional and geometric morphometrics, to analyze the toad population.

Limitations

The study is limited to a specific geographic area and may not represent all populations of Proceratophrys cristiceps.

Participant Demographics

The study involved 79 specimens collected from the Pedra da Boca State Park in Brazil.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.01

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0003934

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