DEPIGMENTATION IN RANA TEMPORARIA TADPOLES AS A RESULT OF METHYLTHIOURACIL TREATMENT

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Abstract
R. temporaria tadpoles were given intensive treatment with methylthiouracil. The thyroid glands developed very pronounced hyperplasia, and the histological picture of the gland was that of extreme hyperactivity. At the same time metamorphosis was delayed and the animals developed into giant larvae. Extreme depigmentation was observed in most of the treated animals. The melanophores in all parts of the body were extremely scarce, poor in melanin, and contracted. The animals had no general silvery white appearance. Possible explanations of the depigmentation are discussed.