Individual identification of Duttaphrynus melanostictus (Schneider, 1799) (Amphibia: Anura: Bufonidae) based on dorsal wart patterns

Abstract

The dorsal surface of Duttaphrynus melanostictus is covered with keratinized warts of various sizes and shapes. Using combinations and patterns of cranial and mid dorsal warts, we attempted to identify individual toads from a natural population as a non-invasive alternative to existing marking techniques based on toe clipping, pit tagging, and subcutaneous elastomer injections to facilitate population estimates. An accuracy of 100% identification was achieved via this method, making it a potent tool for population studies in this species that is faster, cheaper and less disruptive than standard marking techniques.

Keywords

• capture-recapture
• duttaphrynus melanostictus
• individual identity
• population estimation