FREQUENT ANOMALIES IN A POPULATION OF Hyla plicata (ANURA: HYLIDAE) EXPOSED TO LEAD AND IRON DURING POSTEMBRYONIC DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

In this work was conducted a bio-monitoring and a bioassay in a population exposed to lead and iron of the frog Hyla plicata from Hidalgo, Mexico, to identify possible anomalies caused by contact with these elements. This species was used, as it is in the category "threatened" by the NOM-059-SEMARNAT-2001, and some of their populations living near urban areas. In this work were used specimens in post-embryonic stage. In the bioassay were formed three groups, a control, one in contact with iron (Fe), and another with lead (Pb). Macroscopic anomalies were identified in individuals of the pond and in those analyzed in laboratory conditions. Were found anomalies in gut, skin, pgmentation, spine and limbs. Individuals of the bioassay had higher rates of anomalies than those obtained by biomonitoring directly from the environment. In the bioassay were shown highest rates of individuals with anomalies in the groups in contact with Fe and Pb than those in the control group. This suggests that the presence of heavy metals produce macroscopic anomalies in this species.