Parasites Change Frog Bodies and Survival
Author Information
Author(s): Brett A. Goodman, Pieter T. J. Johnson
Primary Institution: University of Colorado, Boulder
Hypothesis
Malformations caused by the trematode Ribeiroia ondatrae will reduce host performance and survival in amphibians.
Conclusion
Parasite-induced malformations significantly impair the performance and survival of amphibian hosts.
Supporting Evidence
- Malformed frogs had 41% shorter jumping distances and 37% slower swimming speeds compared to normal frogs.
- Malformed frogs exhibited 22% lower biweekly survival in natural populations.
- Malformations affected approximately 50% of metamorphosing frogs in nature.
Takeaway
Parasites can change how frogs look and move, making it harder for them to survive and find food.
Methodology
The study combined laboratory performance trials with a capture-mark-recapture study of Pacific chorus frogs to assess the effects of parasite-induced malformations.
Potential Biases
Potential confounding factors from using wild-caught frogs instead of experimentally infected individuals.
Limitations
The study may not account for all environmental factors affecting frog survival and performance.
Participant Demographics
Pacific chorus frogs (Pseudacris regilla) collected from two ponds in California.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI 0.57 to 0.72
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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