Between fruits, flowers and nectar: The extraordinary diet of the frog Xenohyla truncata

Abstract

Pollination and seed dispersal are determinants for plant survivorship. Among land vertebrates, mammals and birds stand out in these relationships with plants. On the other hand, frogs are not expected to play a role in these interactions, as nearly all species are carnivorous (mostly insectivorous) after metamorphosis. However, one species attracts attention: Xenohyla truncata, which includes plant parts on its natural diet. Recently, we observed unexpected interactions between this Neotropical treefrog and plants in their native range. The frog fed on different plant parts, consuming fruits, floral structures and nectar with suction-like movements, and we observed pollen grains adhered to the frog's back, which renders this treefrog as a potential pollinator, besides its already established role as seed disperser. Nectar ingestion during the reproductive season could benefit individuals under high energetic demand. This is a unique and outstanding example of unforeseen interactions between amphibians and plants.