Effects of Temperature on Embryonic and Larval Development and Growth in the Matterjact Toad (Bufo Calamita) in a Semi-Arid Zone

Effects of temperature on embryonic and larval development and growth in the matterjack toad in a semi-arid zone, are investigated. It is observed that development time increases with decreasing temperature. Higher temperatures are well known to accelerating larval growth and development. Growth rate depends on development rate, and both are functions of circulating hormone levels, which are in turn dependent upon the stage of differentiation reached. Developmental stage differs for each temperature condition. One limitation of the study is that tadpoles can actively thermoregulate by moving between shallow and deep water. The results suggest that temperatures below 20 degree C are too low to allow normal tadpole development and growth, while higher temperatures can favor growth and developmental conditions.