FIRST RECORD OF MULTIPLE LEUCISM IN COASTAL TAILED FROG TADPOLES (ASCAPHUS TRUEI; ANURA: ASCAPHIDAE)

Abstract Albinism is a chromatic disorder that inhibits melanin production and is rarely observed in natural populations, with occurrences often limited to only single individuals. Here, we report on the 1st documented case of multiple leucism in Coastal Tailed Frog (Ascaphus truei) tadpoles observed in a small stream in British Columbia, Canada. During intensive surveys of 21 streams in 2021, we captured 3 leucistic tadpoles (0.10% of all tadpoles captured) at the same site. Leucistic tadpoles lacked pigmentation on all body surfaces but possessed black eyes. Relative to individuals with typical coloration, leucistic tadpoles may be rarely observed due to higher mortality rates and delayed time to metamorphosis, but the effect of leucism on fitness is poorly understood.