Predicting Anuran Metamorphosis and Energetics

Abstract

Rates of growth (Pr) and metabolism (Mr) as well as timing of metamorphosis can be precisely described using feeding rate (Cr) as the predictor in Rana tigrina and selected anurans exposed to variables of more than one environmental factor. To predict size at metamorphosis in these anurans, Pr and development rate (Dr) as well as stage-specific growth (Ps) are jointly used as the predictor. Since Cr can predict Pr and Dr, one must know Cr and Ps to predict size at metamorphosis when variables of more than one environmental factor are considered.