Question

How do Amplexusory pads help frogs?

Answer 1

Hint: Amplexusory pads also known as nuptial pads or nuptial excrescence. These pads are secondary structures, found in mature male frogs, and are also found in the salamander. These are formed when the androgen hormones are triggered. It is a type of mucous gland.

Complete answer:
Amplexusory pads are developed in male frogs. These are softly padded-like structures present below the first finger of the forelimb. This structure only develops during the breeding season. The pads are functional for holding the female frog during the process of copulation. These are the accessory organs developed only during the reproductive process. The vocal sacs are present only in male and during the breeding season. They attract female frogs by producing a loud sound. A nuptial pad is developed at the base of the first finger of the male frog. The vocal sacs increase the pitch of the sound, while the nuptial pad helps in holding the female during amplexus or copulation. Male anurans characteristically grasp the back of a receptive female with the utilisation of nuptial pads associated with forelimbs and release sperms as the female releases eggs. This clasping behaviour or holding behaviour is termed amplexus and may trigger the release of eggs from the female. Though androgens are responsible for the formation of secondary sex characteristics, such as nuptial pads. Throughout the amplexus (copulation), the male frog mounts from above and tries to rub his chin on the female's nasal region to transfer pheromones into the male’s body that enhances his chances of spermatophore transfer.

Note: The fertilization in frogs is external. Both the male and female release their gamete cell in the water where fertilization occurs. They produce thousands of offspring in one mating. The eggs mature in females from summer till late spring season, until the mating season begins.