Dietary composition of two sympatric frog species of the genus Ptychadena in Azagny National Park, Côte d’Ivoire

Dietary studies provide critical insights into amphibian ecology and mechanisms of coexistence among sympatric species. We investigated the diet composition of Ptychadena longirostris and P. oxyrhynchus in the swamp forest ecosystem of Azagny National Park, Côte d’Ivoire, between April and November 2015. Frogs were sampled nocturnally near temporary and semi-permanent ponds, and stomach contents were obtained using non-lethal gastric lavage. Prey items were identified and quantified using numerical, gravimetric, and frequency indices, complemented by the Index of Relative Importance (IRI).

A total of 171 individuals were examined. Both species exhibited broad diets dominated by arthropods, with insects contributing over 90% of the IRI. Orthopterans were the preferred prey, while other insect groups contributed variably. P. longirostris consumed a slightly greater diversity of prey categories. Females were larger than males in both species, and body size correlated positively with prey consumption in P. oxyrhynchus but not in P. longirostris.

These findings reveal substantial qualitative overlap in trophic resources, suggesting similar ecological strategies. However, inferences regarding competition remain tentative without prey availability data or quantitative niche overlap indices. This study provides baseline dietary information for two widespread Ptychadena species and highlights the need for future research integrating prey availability, seasonality, and quantitative measures of trophic overlap to clarify resource use and niche partitioning in West African wetland amphibian communities.