Kin recognition cues in Rana cascadae tadpoles.

The importance of chemical, visual, and auditory cues in kin recognition behavior in Rana cascadae tadpoles was tested in laboratory choice experiments. Tadpoles were given a choice of associating with siblings or nonsiblings by using visual and chemical stimuli together (standard tests), visual stimuli alone, or chemical stimuli alone. We also monitored sound production of tadpoles. We conclude that tadpoles can distinguish between siblings and nonsiblings by using waterborne chemical cues alone that are probably sensed by olfaction or taste. Visual stimuli alone are not sufficient for such discrimination and sound production as a means of communication in tadpoles is probably unimportant.