Predation on young treefrogs (Osteocephalus taurinus) by arthropods (Insecta, Mantodea and Arachnida, Araneae) in Central Brazil

Abstract

Praying mantis and spider species are common food items in the diet of several anuran species. Nevertheless, in this study we report the predation of young treefrogs Osteocephalus taurinus by two spider species, a Pisauridae and a Trechaleidae (Neoctenus sp.) and by the praying mantis Eumusonia sp. in Mato Grosso, Central Brazil. The great abundance of this treefrog in the region, combined with its small body size during the juvenil stage, favor its predation by generalists predators. Indeed, more studies are needed to quantify the real influence of invertebrate predators on anuran populations.