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1 April 2009 Introduction of the American Bullfrog Lithobates catesbeianus (Anura: Ranidae) in Natural and Modified Environments: An Increasing Conservation Problem in Argentina
Diego A. Barrasso, Rodrigo Cajade, Santiago J. Nenda, Gabriel Baloriani, Raúl Herrera
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Abstract

Several previous studies have established that the introduction of the American bullfrog, Lithobates catesbeianus, produces negative effects on native communities. Herein, the American bullfrog is reported for the first time in the province of Buenos Aires, Argentina in the locality of 9 de Julio. The stomach contents of the collected specimens were examined and the reproduction of the species was also confirmed at the study area. A total of 85.7% (n = 30) of the analyzed stomachs contained prey items, and eleven of these were identified. The prey items belonged mostly to coleopterans (50%) and vertebrates (11%). The pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis was not found on skin samples examined. The installation of Lithobates catesbeianus breeding facilities contributes to the incidental release of this species. A tightening of rules in the regulation of aquaculture activities and the use of control programs for naturalized populations are necessary to address the increasing dispersion of the species in Argentina and potential ecological problems.

© 2009 Brazilian Society of Herpetology
Diego A. Barrasso, Rodrigo Cajade, Santiago J. Nenda, Gabriel Baloriani, and Raúl Herrera "Introduction of the American Bullfrog Lithobates catesbeianus (Anura: Ranidae) in Natural and Modified Environments: An Increasing Conservation Problem in Argentina," South American Journal of Herpetology 4(1), 69-75, (1 April 2009). https://doi.org/10.2994/057.004.0109
Received: 7 April 2008; Accepted: 1 March 2009; Published: 1 April 2009
KEYWORDS
feeding behavior
grasslands
invasive frogs
naturalized populations
reproduction
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