Xenopus Laevis (Anura: Pipidae) Mating Systems - A Preliminary Synthesis with some Data on the Female Phonoresponse

Abstract

The mating system of hormonally stimulated Xenopus laevis laevis has been examined. The mating call of the male can be divided into two parts, one displaying a greater pulse repetition rate. These two components follow one another in calling bouts without intervals of silence between them. Temporal characteristics of the call are presented. The mating call has a complex frequency structure. Up to five energetic frequency bands are present, and individual frogs from the same population emphasize different bands. Female Xenopus laevis respond to the mating call with a positive phonotactic response. This has been quantified, and the associated behaviour described. Females, when clasped by males, produce a release call which rarely resulted in the release of the female, the result of overstimulation of the male with sex hormone. Males give a soft 'amplectant call' while clasping. Clasped males produce a release call which effects their release. Of all modes of communication, the mating call is considered to convey the highest information content for mate recognition. Other communication relates to the physiological condition of the clasped frog.