Microstructure comparison of jaw sheaths between the Megophryid tadpoles (Amphibia, Anura) by the technology of electron microscope

The jaw sheaths morphology of eight megophryid larvae were examined using scanning electron microscope. The morphology of jaw sheaths of Leptobrachiinae and Leptolalaginae larvae was similar. Their jaw sheaths were U-shaped and strong keratinized, the serrations were pyramidal, with broad-based and short pointed. While the jaw sheaths of Megophryinae larvae were less curved and weak keratinized, the serrations were ivory-shaped, with narrow-based and long pointed. It has been found that the relationship between serration’s diameter and density was negatively correlated, the changing trend reflected the functional significance of serrations. These distinctions among the jaw sheaths of tadpoles most could be related to their specific ecological habits and to their dietary specializations..