Thermal Aspects of Anuran Foam Nests

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Abstract
The thermal properties of terrestrial foam nests of Physalaemus pustulosus (Anura, Leptodactylidae) were investigated in Trinidad, West Indies. Diurnal temperature variation within foam nests resulted from the interaction of several factors: duration of direct solar radiation received by a nest, time of day, cloud cover and extent of shading provided by surrounding vegetation. Absorption of solar radiation by nests resulted in temperatures up to 8.2.degree. C above ambient air temperatures. Terrestrial foam nests of anurans functions to retard desiccation of eggs and larvae while apparently providing a thermally advantageous environment for rapid larval development.