Fluctuating Gram-Negative Microflora in Developing Anurans

Luke A. Fedewa
University of Georgia • Savannah River Ecology Laboratory • P O Drawer E • Aiken, SC 29802 USA

 

Abstract
Enteric bacterial communities from Southern Toads (Bufo terrestris) and Spring Peepers (Pseudacris crucifer) were quantified during larval development and metamorphosis to examine relationships between development and enteric microflora. Higher levels of enteric Gram-negative bacteria were observed during metamorphosis in each species' intestines. Gut content had no effect on bacterial levels in B. terrestris. Much higher bacterial levels were recorded in smaller metamorphs. The results of this research suggest that enteric microflora may play an ecological role in anuran development and metamorphosis.