SREL Reprint #1825

Effects of freshwater petroleum contamination on amphibian hatching and metamorphosis

Patricia Ann Mahaney

University of Georgia Department of Zoology and Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, Drawer E, Aiken, South Carolina 29802

Abstract: This study examined the effects of freshwater petroleum contamination on amphibian reproduction. The primary objectives were to assess the potential environmental and physiological impacts of runoff petroleum products on amphibians, using the green treefrog (Hyla cinerea) as a target species and engine crankcase oil as a contaminant. Egg hatching success, tadpole growth, and successful metamorphosis were measured in four concentrations of oil. The effects of oil on food source was also studied. Hatching success was not measurably influenced by the presence of oil. Tadpole and alga growth were negatively associated with the presence of oil. No tadpoles from the high concentration of oil treatments successfully metamorphosed.

Keywords: Amphibian; Crankcase oil; Hyla cinerea; Metamorphosis; Petroleum contamination

SREL Reprint #1825

Mahaney, P.A. 1994. Effects of freshwater petroleum contamination on amphibian hatching and metamorphosis. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry 13:259-265. 

This information was provided by the University of Georgia's Savannah River Ecology Laboratory (srel.uga.edu).