Effects of exposure to ultraviolet light on the development of Rana pipiens, the northern leopard frog
- Union Univ., Jackson, TN (United States)
The increase in ultraviolet light intensity levels due to ozone depletion recently has been linked to the decline in amphibian population. In this experiment, eggs and larvae of Rana pipiens were subjected to differing amounts of ultraviolet radiation to determine the effects of ultraviolet light on the development of amphibian tadpoles. The total length, length of body without tail, and maximum width of each specimen was recorded for a month of the tadpoles` development, including several measurements after the ultraviolet exposures were concluded. It was found that ultraviolet exposure significantly reduced the size of the organisms in comparison with the control group in all three measured areas. Ultraviolet radiation altered the health and appearance of the exposed organisms and was lethal at large amounts. This experiment showed that ultraviolet radiation could cause many problems in developing amphibians. By slowing their development and physically weakening predation, thus contributing to a decline in overall population levels.
- OSTI ID:
- 518618
- Journal Information:
- Journal of the Tennessee Academy of Science, Vol. 71, Issue 4; Other Information: PBD: Oct 1996
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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