The Metamorphosis in Triturus vittatus ophryticus and Triturus carnifex: Two Different Life Histories

Stefano Gozzo, Rita Casetti, Alessandra Taglioni, Monica Meloni, Vincenzo Monaco

Abstract


Some developmental parameters in the larval, climax and postmetamorphic stages of Triturus vittatus ophryticus and Triturus carnifex were compared in order to identify interspecific differences within the genus Triturus. Seventy larvae from each investigated species were reared in the same experimental conditions from hatching to the postmetamorphic stage. Biometric (body weights, total body lengths, snout-vent lengths) and histological data (density of epidermic glands) were collected in ten specimens randomly chosen after hatching, from thirty days old larvae, at climax and at the first postmetamorphic stage. Dry-substrate migration trend in the first postmetamorphic life was also estimated. Higher developmental rates attained during metamorphosis, smaller body size in the climax and in the first postmetamorphic stages, higher dry-substrate migration pattern and lower glandular density in the skin were observed in Triturus vittatus ophryticus when compared to Triturus carnifex. Our data show remarkably differences of the developmental patterns in Triturus vittatus ophryticus and Triturus carnifex. The observed differences are correlated and discussed, taking into account some ethological peculiarities of the two species.

Keywords


genus Triturus; Triturus vittatus ophryticus; Triturus carnifex; metamorphosis; life history; thyroid glands

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References


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DOI: https://doi.org/10.30906/1026-2296-1999-6-2-107-114

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