Reproductive site selection in a bromeliad breeding treefrog suggests complex evolutionary trade-offs

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Evolutionary Biology
• Herpetology

Background:

• Reproductive site selection is crucial for fitness in many species.
• Males of Aparasphenodon arapapa, a Brazilian Atlantic Forest treefrog, utilize bromeliad phytotelmata for breeding.
• Parental survival and mating success can be compromised by offspring survival-enhancing site characteristics, leading to evolutionary trade-offs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the reproductive site selection criteria of the bromeliad-breeding treefrog, Aparasphenodon arapapa.
• To understand the trade-offs males face when choosing bromeliad tanks for reproduction.
• To determine if males prioritize water volume or other factors in site selection.

Main Methods:

• Field observations of male treefrog behavior and bromeliad selection in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest.
• Analysis of bromeliad characteristics, including water volume, size, inclination, and presence of leaf litter.
• Correlation of male presence and reproductive success with specific bromeliad attributes.

Main Results:

• Males generally preferred larger bromeliads with more water but avoided extremely large tanks and high water volumes.
• Factors such as the ability to seal the entrance, predator avoidance, and acoustic signaling influenced site selection.
• Males avoided bromeliads with leaf litter and showed a preference for slightly inclined plants.

Conclusions:

• Aparasphenodon arapapa males engage in complex trade-offs during reproductive site selection.
• Selection involves balancing the need for sufficient water to prevent evaporation against the risks of predation and reduced mating success.
• Optimal site selection requires a balance between offspring survival needs and parental fitness considerations.