The Tadpoles of Bufo cognatus Say

"The Tadpoles of Bufo cognatus Say" by Hobart M. Smith is a scientific publication written in the mid-20th century. The book focuses on the tadpole stage of the amphibian species Bufo cognatus, providing observations and analyses of their anatomy and behavior. Smith's research contributes to the understanding of amphibian development and taxonomy, particularly in relation to the specific characteristics of this species. In this publication, Smith presents detailed descriptions and drawings of the mouthparts of Bufo cognatus tadpoles, emphasizing the consistency of these features across different specimens gathered in the field. He highlights the morphological characteristics that differentiate the larvae from other closely related species, suggesting a strong relationship with Bufo compactilis. Notably, Smith also discusses the timing of various developmental stages, such as the appearance of hind and fore legs, and raises questions about the classification of these tadpoles, indicating the need for further comparative studies to clarify their taxonomic status. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Hobart Muir Smith, born Frederick William Stouffer, was an American herpetologist. He is credited with describing more than 100 new species of American reptiles and amphibians. In addition, he has been honored by having at least six species named after him, including the southwestern blackhead snake, Smith's earth snake, Smith's arboreal alligator lizard, Hobart's anadia, Hobart Smith's anole, and Smith's rose-bellied lizard. At 100 years of age, Smith continued to be an active and productive herpetologist. Although he published on a wide range of herpetological subjects, his main focus throughout his career was on the amphibians and reptiles of Mexico, including taxonomy, bibliographies, and history. Having published more than 1,600 manuscripts, he surpassed all contemporaries and remains the most published herpetologist of all time.