Reproductive phase related variations in the expression of neuropeptide, cocaine- and amphetamine- regulated transcript (CART) in the brain and pituitary gland of adult male Microhyla ornata

•First report about the presence of CART in olfactory epithelium (OLF), epiphysis (E) and pars distalis (PD) of anuran.•The study reveals seasonal alterations of CART in anuran brain.•CART may be involved in neuromodulation of breeding and appetite cycle.•Role of CART is evolutionary conserved in anurans.