FIRST RECORD OF ALBINISM AND PIEBALDISM IN Atelognathus patagonicus GALLARDO, 1962 (ANURA: BATRACHYLIDAE), LAGUNA BLANCA NATIONAL PARK, ARGENTINIAN PATAGONIA

Abstract

Among the different types of pigmentary anomalies, albinism is the most common in amphibians. The Critically Endangered Patagonia frog (Atelognathus patagonicus) is endemic to the northwest Argentinian Patagonia, and inhabits small temporary lagoons isolated from each other. During the monitoring of two sub-populations of the species, we found 32 individuals (4.5%; N = 714) with pigmentary anomalies in Antiñir lagoon, inside Laguna Blanca National Park. Among them, 31 were albinos (five tadpoles, two metamorphs and 24 juveniles) recognized for having transparent skin and red eyes. One individual was found with piebaldism, presenting patches without pigmentation and eyes of normal color. This is the first record of pigmentary anomalies for Atelognathus patagonicus, which may have ecological and conservation implications for the species.