Biosystematic study of Anura in the Markazy Province of central Iran.

Only recently Anuran fauna of Iran has been studied systematically. In order to study the biosystematics of Anuran in the Markazy Province, 122 specimens were collected from six stations during spring and summer 2004-2005. Samples were transferred alive to the zoology laboratory, identified and were preserved. The samples composed of the marsh frog, Rana ridibunda and the green toad, Bufo viridis. The phenetic studies between populations of the two species, 14 characteristics in frog and 17 characteristics in toad were measured. T-test analysis between sexes were significant in 12 characteristics for frogs and only one characteristic for toads (p < 0.001). One way ANOVA between populations for each species were significant in 13 characteristics for frogs and 6 characteristics for toads (p < 0.001). Difference between multivariate mean vectors confirmed in T2 Hotelling for populations and sexes of marsh frog (p < 0.001 ). Length of foot and femur were discriminated distinct sexes based on discrimination analysis with 89% correct grouping for frogs and space between eyelids with 92% correct grouping for toads. Discrimination analysis between populations discriminated groups based on two functions with 78% correct grouping in frogs and 88% correct grouping in toads. Cluster analysis based on centroids grouped populations resulted from geographical and ecological conditions.