Increase rate of urea production and retention as soils dry, decreases osmotic gradient between frog and soil, decreases water loss. D. Increase water uptake by skin via hormone production. Glands on the skin able to detect suitable water for absorption. Maximize use of sporadic and ephemeral aquatic resources. Increases distance of sound transmission from newly available breeding sites.
Females arrive simultaneously, rather than over long period of time.
Result is intense scramble competition by males for females, rather than female choice. Eggs may hatch in 2-3 days. Larvae may metamorphose in 1-2 months. Timing depends on temperature, food, and crowding. Respond by metamorphosing at smaller size if pond drying occurs.