Annual activity patterns of anurans in a seasonal neotropical environment.

At Panguana, a study in the upper Amazon basin, 7 different aquatic breeding sites of anurans were investigated from Nov. 1, 1981 to Oct. 31, 1982. Rainfall in this area is seasonal. Only 20% of the total annual precipitation was maesured during the dry period, which lasted from mid-March until mid-September 1982. The reproductive periods of the species were highly affected by the rainfall distribution. Calling males and/or gravid females of 46 species were found during the study period. 37.0% of the anuran species were exclusively, and 43.5% predominantly, active during the rainy season. Plots of 100 m2 were established at 6 aquatic sites in primary rainforest. A total of 2126 frogs was counted; 93.2% of these were made during the rainy season. A maximum of 378 individuals were found during one check in the plot at the permanent pond. At this site high concentrations of individuals and large choruses were found at the beginning of the rainy season. As soon as favourable temporary aquatic sites were established, reproductive activities decreased at the permanent pond and increased at temporary breeding sites.