Hylarana Temporalis - Growth and Development

Growth and Development

The tadpoles of bronzed frogs start appearing in the streams by October till March. They are at least 11–14 mm long at metamorphosis and weigh about 100–170 mg. The larval duration varies from 90–120 days. The dorsal side of the tadpoles bear a muddy green/white/yellowish or olive brown colour while their lateral side is usually muddy. They carry a triangular snout with a single, sinistral and lateral spiracle. Tail fin is transparent and pointed with moderately developed musculature. Slight pigmentation is visible on the skin of tail muscles and tail fins. The height of the dorsal fin is greater than the ventral fin. The teeth are blunt with the dental formula 2(2)/3(1). A characteristic yellowish brown strip is formed on the dorsal side between the snout and the posterior tip. On the lateral side, a black strip runs from the anterior to the posterior side of the body. Within a week of metamorphosis, small bronzed coloured strips appear on either sides of the lower jaw, between the snout and the posterior point of the forelimbs. The bronzed strips are interrupted below the forelimbs.