Phenotypic adaptation in terms of background color matching to the local habitat is an important mechanism for survival in prey species. Thus, intraspecific variation in cryptic coloration is expected among localities with dissimilar habitat ...
Super interesting part about these fire-bellied toads being observed: “The Doberg frogs were repeatedly observed to cover themselves with pond soil. This could hint at a perception of the imperfect match of their dorsal coloration to the substrate.”
This indicates that the frogs from the Doberg population, when they were observed in the wild, were covering themselves with debris, possibly as a behavioral response to the mismatch between their dorsal coloration and the surrounding substrate.
Suggests that the frogs might recognize the inadequacy of their camouflage and attempt to improve their concealment by adding debris, thereby enhancing their cryptic coloration.
Super interesting part about these fire-bellied toads being observed: “The Doberg frogs were repeatedly observed to cover themselves with pond soil. This could hint at a perception of the imperfect match of their dorsal coloration to the substrate.”
This indicates that the frogs from the Doberg population, when they were observed in the wild, were covering themselves with debris, possibly as a behavioral response to the mismatch between their dorsal coloration and the surrounding substrate.
Suggests that the frogs might recognize the inadequacy of their camouflage and attempt to improve their concealment by adding debris, thereby enhancing their cryptic coloration.