Wpływ promieniowania ultrafioletowego UV-A na konsumpcję tlenu przez larwy ropuchy szarej (Bufo bufo L.) w różnych okresach rozwojowych

Abstract

The effects of ambient UV-A radiation (Cracow district, Poland, 50°04'N, 19°57'E; 220 m a.s.l.) on general metabolism was studied in gray toad tadpoles (Bufo bufo L.). General metabolism was measured as oxygen consumption at rest. Measurements were taken in tadpoles during premetamorphosis and prometamorphosis. Applied radiation caused significant increases in oxygen consumption in young tadpoles (premetamorphosis). On the other hand tadpoles exposed to UV-A radiation during the period of prometamorphosis significantly decreased their metabolic rate. These results suggest that ambient levels of UV-A radiation affect the metabolic rate of gray toad larvae living in shallow habitats. This phenomenon may increase the susceptibility of larvae to predation and ecologically relevant pathogens. The mechanism of action of UV-A on general metabolism in tadpoles is discussed.