Not all male frogs turn into princes. But those that are losers in love can still become a dad. Spanish zoologists have discovered that male frogs who don't find a mate can spread their sperm over eggs that have been left by a pair of romancing amphibians.
Until now, the species in question -- the common frog (Rana temporaria) -- was believed to have a rather humdrum sex life.
However, observations made from the undergrowth surrounding a Pyrenean pond by University of Vigo frog-watcher David Vieities and colleagues found that, once a pair of mating frogs left their amorous meeting place, the "loser" frog often moves in, shedding his own sperm over the egg clutch.
Even though he has lost out in the mating game, he has the opportunity to win, and so does the "mom." With two males attempting to fertilize her eggs, she has a better chance of creating more tadpoles.
The females actually have the opportunity to win in two ways:
1) She gets to choose her mate;
2) She often ends up with more offspring.
The researchers observed 119 pairs of frogs mating. Of those, 84% had a second male frog "move in.
The study is published today in Nature, the British weekly scientific journal.
Here's to healthy, adventuresome, soulful and "routin'-for-the-underfrog" living!
~ Jennifer King
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