COMPARATIVE ONTOGENY OF THE TEGUMENTARY SYSTEM OF RHINELLA SCHNEIDERI (ANURA: BUFONIDAE), LEPTODACTYLUS CHAQUENSIS (ANURA: LEPTODACTYLIDAE) AND SCINAX ACUMINATUS (ANURA: SCINAXIDAE)

CUZZIOL BOCCIONI, P; OLEA, GB.; LOMBARDO, DM.

Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires

Otro; Reunión Conjunta de Sociedades de Biociencias; 2017

Sociedad Argentina de Biología - Sociedad Argentina de Investigación Clínica

Profound changes and complexation of anurans tegument accompany morphological, physiological and behavioral modifications that take place during metamorphosis. Also, its structure allows interpreting specific biological characteristics of the habitat of each species. The objective of this work was to analyze comparatively the external morphology and histology of the tegument during the ontogeny of Rhinella schneideri (Rs), Leptodactylus chaquensis (Lc) and Scinax acuminatus (Sc). Larval, juvenile and adult specimens of the species were analyzed in stereoscopic magnifying glass and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to establish macro-structural comparisons. Histological sections were obtained by a conventional technique and were stained with H&E, Mallory Trichrome, and PAS for contrast tissue aspects. The three species coincided in general tegument configuration (epidermis and dermis), and its changes that go through ontogeny. Significant differences were found in presence and time of appearance of specialized structures. Giant cells associated with gregarious behavior were recorded at different larval stages for Rs and Ls. Multicellular glandular outlines appeared in pro-metamorphosis for Rs and Sa, but just in the metamorphic climax for Lc. Tubercles and spines were described for Rs, pustules and minor protuberances for Sa and a smooth tegument without macroscopic specializations for Lc. The mucosal glandular content match the serous one in Lc, while the others two species had higher serous contents. That agrees with the habitat of each species, mostly associated with water bodies and terrestrial surroundings, respectively. This work will serve as a basis for future comparative studies with other anurans and for ecomorphological analyses that will deepen in the relationship between the skin properties, the way of life and habitat of species.