Agriculture Affects Toad Reproduction
Author Information
Author(s): Krista A. McCoy, Laurel J. Bortnick, Chelsey M. Campbell, Heather J. Hamlin, Louis J. Guillette Jr., Colette M. St. Mary
Primary Institution: University of Florida
Hypothesis
Are gonadal abnormalities in Bufo marinus associated with agricultural exposure?
Conclusion
Toads exposed to agricultural areas showed increased gonadal abnormalities and likely reduced reproductive success.
Supporting Evidence
- The number of gonadal abnormalities increased with agricultural activity.
- Intersex toads had hormone levels and traits that were intermediate between males and females.
- Skin coloration in toads from agricultural sites was not sexually dimorphic.
Takeaway
This study found that toads living near farms have more reproductive problems, which could make it harder for them to have babies.
Methodology
The study surveyed five sites with varying agricultural activity and quantified gonadal abnormalities in toads.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the selection of sites that may not represent all agricultural impacts.
Limitations
The study did not examine populations with little human impact to compare the frequency of abnormalities.
Participant Demographics
Adult Bufo marinus toads collected from five different sites in south Florida.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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