Introduction of the American Bullfrog Lithobates catesbeianus (Anura: Ranidae) in Natural and Modified Environments: An Increasing Conservation Problem in Argentina

Abstract

Several previous studies have established that the introduction of the American bullfrog, Lithobates catesbeianus, Lithobates catesbeianus, produces negative effects on native communities. Herein, the American bullfrog is reported for the first time in the province of Buenos Aires, Argentina in the locality of 9 de Julio. The stomach contents of the collected specimens were examined and the reproduction of the species was also confirmed at the study area. A total of 85.7% (n = 30) of the analyzed stomachs contained prey items, and eleven of these were identified. The prey items belonged mostly to coleopterans (50%) and vertebrates (11%). The pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis was not found on skin samples examined. The installation of Lithobates catesbeianusn = 30) of the analyzed stomachs contained prey items, and eleven of these were identified. The prey items belonged mostly to coleopterans (50%) and vertebrates (11%). The pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis was not found on skin samples examined. The installation of Lithobates catesbeianusBatrachochytrium dendrobatidis was not found on skin samples examined. The installation of Lithobates catesbeianus breeding facilities contributes to the incidental release of this species. A tightening of rules in the regulation of aquaculture activities and the use of control programs for naturalized populations are necessary to address the increasing dispersion of the species in Argentina and potential ecological problems.