Suction Feeding in Dendropsophus cerradensis Tadpoles: New Behavioral Observations and Morphological Traits in a Member of the D. microcephalus Group (Anura, Hylidae).

ABSTRACT: We present, for the first time, the suction feeding behavior of the tadpole of Dendropsophus cerradensis (Hylidae, Dendropsophini), along with a detailed description of its external morphology, buccopharyngeal cavity, and musculoskeletal system. The tadpole exhibits a depressed body, anteriorly positioned nostrils, a modified oral disc (completely covered by external folds), and a low tail, resembling other members of the D. microcephalus group. The buccopharyngeal cavity is reduced in features, with internal nares positioned at an acute angle and covered by prenarial papillae, exclusive for this species. Muscle insertion patterns are generally consistent with other Dendropsophini tadpoles, except for the insertion of the m. levator mandibulae longus profundus on Meckel's cartilage. The fe

SUBMITTER: Marcondes BC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12057304 | biostudies-literature | 2025 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature