Summary
Tadpoles of the common toad are distinguished by a number of social reactions. Although no optical reactions could be observed, they tend to swim in swarms parallel to each other, the orientation probably being brought about by their side-organs. Flight reactions are released either by tactile or by chemical stimuli. The chemical flight reaction is brought about by juice of another tadpole being crushed in the water. The substances which are chemical effective seem to be contained exclusively in the skin.
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References
K. v. Frisch, Z. vgl. Physiol.29 46 (1941).
W. Kempendorff, Spix., Arch. f. Molluskenkde.74 (1942).
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Eibl-Eibesfeldt, I. Über das Vorkommen von Schreckstoffen bei Erdkrötenquappen. Experientia 5, 236 (1949). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02166898
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02166898