Vocalisations, territoriality and aggressive interactions of the Chaco tree frog Boana raniceps

AUTHORS GUILHERME DE T. FIGUEIREDO; LEANDRO DO N. MÁXIMO; FELIPE S. CAMPOS; RICARDO LOURENÇO-DE-MORAES
Abstract – Various types of intra; interspecific vocalisation are a primary means of communication among anuran species. In intraspecific interactions; male anurans emit calls to attract females; repel rival males. This study describes new vocalisation types for reproductively active Boana raniceps (Anura Hylidae); provides a commentary on aggressive intraspecific behaviour that was recorded at ten sites. In addition to advertisement calls; our findings reveal that males emit two types of aggressive call; one territorial call; one encounter call. We identified a sequence of different aggressive behaviours displayed during physical combat between two males. Our findings show that B. raniceps exhibits complex intraspecific behaviours in a reproductive context.

The Herpetological Bulletin is a quarterly publication in English. It includes full-length papers, natural history notes, book reviews, and other items of general herpetological interest. Emphasis is placed on natural history and conservation as well as captive care that includes breeding, husbandry, veterinary, and behavioural aspects.

pdf 01. Vocalisations, territoriality and aggressive interactions of the Chaco tree frog Boana raniceps

23 downloads

Subscription required

AUTHORS: GUILHERME DE T. FIGUEIREDO, LEANDRO DO N. MÁXIMO, FELIPE S. CAMPOS & RICARDO LOURENÇO-DE-MORAES

Abstract – Various types of intra and interspecific vocalisation are a primary means of communication among anuran species. In intraspecific interactions, male anurans emit calls to attract females and repel rival males. This study describes new vocalisation types for reproductively active Boana raniceps (Anura: Hylidae) and provides a commentary on aggressive intraspecific behaviour that was recorded at ten sites. In addition to advertisement calls, our findings reveal that males emit two types of aggressive call, one territorial call and one encounter call. We identified a sequence of different aggressive behaviours displayed during physical combat between two males. Our findings show that B. raniceps exhibits complex intraspecific behaviours in a reproductive context.