Why do poison frogs produce sugar and bile in the skin?

Through analysis of Mantella frog frog skin in Madagascar, researchers Valerie Clark of Ireland discovered for the first time that poison frog skin contains superficial sugar and bile acids.

Through analysis of Mantella frog frog skin in Madagascar, researchers Valerie Clark of Ireland discovered for the first time that poison frog skin contains superficial sugar and bile acids.

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According to Clark, poison frogs secrete bile and sugar may be the way to attract ants to feed frogs. It can also protect skin from mold in wet environments.

Picture 1 of Why do poison frogs produce sugar and bile in the skin?

Sugar, skin bile acids Mantella poison frog is in its "arsenal" system.

Not only that, sugar and bile can also help frogs heal wounds, fight infection or immunity to ants transmitted by ants.

Physiologist Alan Hofmann, who has studied bile acids over the past 50 years, also said that poison frogs release sugars and bile acids that serve as a weapon in its entire arsenal . Very spicy and bitter bile acids help frogs get rid of predators.

This research was published online in the Journal of Natural Products.

Update 16 December 2018
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