Ontogenetic changes in the epiphyseal cartilage of Rana (Pelophylax) caralitana (Anura: Ranidae).

We document histological changes through ontogeny in the epiphyseal cartilage of the third phalanx of Rana caralitana from Turkey and provide an assessment of the maturation of the epiphysis from newly metamorphosed froglets to 10-year-old individuals. The epiphysis of R. caralitana is compared to other Rana taxa previously studied, and we report on novel histological data pertaining to later stages of epiphyseal growth in this taxon. In addition, we document the development of endochondral ossification in late stages of ontogeny in R. caralitana. Our results suggest a correlation between the long lifespan of R. caralitana and the developmental changes and maturation of the epiphyseal cartilage in this taxon. This study also provides a quantitative assessment of the different regions of the epiphyseal cartilage in the epiphysis of Rana through ontogeny, and has therefore permitted quantifiable deductions about the relative maturation and differentiation of the chondrocytes of the epiphysis through time.