Breeding biology and habitat utilization of the Long-toed Tree Frog (Leptopelis xenodactylus)

Abstract

Leptopelis xenodactylus Poynton, 1963 is a little-known member of the Leptopelis genus. It was discovered in 1963 and, since then, minimal work has been carried out on the species. It is listed as Endangered and its distribution restricted to a small area in the Kwa-Zulu-Natal mountain grassland. By means of extensive field work over three seasons, using various techniques which included passive acoustic monitoring, visible elastomer implants, species distribution modelling and ground-truthing to answer specific research questions, this study was able to shed light on many aspects of the secretive frog’s biology, ecology and life history. Insight was gained on the distances travelled relating to the frog’s movement within and around the wetlands. Two call types were identified and described, along with two variations of these calls and their possible uses. The distribution of calling throughout the recorded period was examined to define the most prolific calling periods on both a monthly and a nightly basis. Observations were made on the mode of amplexus used by this species as well as nest placement, egg dimensions and development, clutch size and dates of laying. Development of tadpoles was also monitored. 19 new localities were identified from the first iteration of the species distribution model and ground-truthing, with plans to re-run the model using the new localities, updated environmental parameters and more updated regularization methods. Recommendations are made for conservation measures and management strategies that could be implemented to better protect and conserve the species as well as the wetlands they inhabit. Finally, suggestions are given of areas where future work on this species would be most beneficial.