ASIATIC BLACK-SPINED TOAD
Duttaphrynus melanostictus
DESCRIPTION
Asiatic Black-Spined Toad (Duttaphrynus melanostictus) is commonly known as the Indo-Malay Toad and the Black-Spined Toad. This species is characterized by its robust body, warty skin, and distinctive black spines along its back, which serve as a warning to potential predators. They are primarily nocturnal and are often found near water bodies, where they engage in breeding activities during the rainy season.
FUN FACTS
- Asiatic Black-Spined Toads are known for their remarkable ability to adapt to urban environments, often thriving in gardens and parks
- They play a crucial role in controlling insect populations, making them beneficial for local ecosystems
- | These toads have a unique breeding strategy where males call to attract females, creating a chorus that can be heard during the rainy season
- Their eggs are laid in water, and the tadpoles develop rapidly, allowing for quick population recovery after seasonal rains
QUICK INFO
Lifespan5-10 years in the wild
Average Weight100-200 g
Average Length7-10 cm
Diet TypeInsectivore
Social Structuresolitary, except during breeding
Activity PatternNocturnal
Breeding SeasonRainy season (varies by region)
- Habitat
- These toads inhabit a variety of environments, including forests, grasslands, and agricultural areas, often near freshwater sources. They prefer moist habitats that provide ample cover and breeding sites.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest, Temperate Forest, Grassland
- Native Range
- The native range of the Asiatic Black-Spined Toad includes parts of Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, and Malaysia.
- Continent
- Asia
- Countries
- India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia
- Diet
- Asiatic Black-Spined Toads primarily consume insects and other small invertebrates. They are opportunistic feeders and will eat whatever is available in their environment.
- Diet Type
- Insectivore
- Favorite Food
- insects, small invertebrates
- Social Structure
- solitary, except during breeding
- Activity Pattern
- Nocturnal
- Group Size
- 1-5
- Territorial
- 0
VU
LC
100-200 g
Weight
7-10 cm
Length
- Coloration
- dark brown to black with lighter spots and spines
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males are generally smaller than females and have more pronounced vocal sacs
- Lifespan
- 5-10 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 1000-2000 eggs
- Sexual Maturity
- 1-2 years
- Breeding Season
- Rainy season (varies by region)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of Asiatic Black-Spined Toads is currently stable, although local declines may occur due to habitat loss.
- Wild Population Estimate
- unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to urbanization and agricultural expansion. Pollution and climate change also pose risks to their populations.
- Predators
- birds, snakes, larger mammals, and some reptiles
- Defense Mechanisms
- They possess toxic skin secretions that deter many predators.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon