Development of amphibians

Rack system

For a successful basic research on amphibians, a new rack system was purchased for the Scientific Animal Keeping Facilities (SAKF) of the Zoological Research Museum Alexander Koenig, corresponding to the modern standards. It comprises a total of 44 terrariums with different sizes, which are positioned in eight blocks, each with five or six terrariums. There is also a climate chamber in the SAKF. We are currently focusing on representatives of the family Dendrobatidae (poison dart frogs). We have a focus on one group within Epipedobates and Ranitomeya. To establish successful captive breeding programmes, basic information about the reproductive biology and development are needed, such as key stimuli of reproduction. Therefore, first various environmental stimuli are tested to stimulate

Epipedobates with larvae

reproductive activity of the frogs. When eggs are present, the development of these is observed and documented in detail and under different conditions. This serves as the basis for publications and conservation breeding.