BLACK-SPINED TOAD
Bufo melanostictus
DESCRIPTION
Black-Spined Toad (Bufo melanostictus) is also known as the Asian Common Toad and is characterized by its dark, warty skin and distinctive black spines along its back. This toad exhibits a robust body with a broad head and large eyes, which are prominent features of its appearance. It is primarily nocturnal, often found in a variety of habitats, including urban areas, where it adapts well to human presence.
FUN FACTS
- The Black-Spined Toad is known for its remarkable adaptability, thriving in both natural and urban environments
- This species can often be seen foraging for food at night, making it a common sight in gardens and parks
- | Interestingly, the Black-Spined Toad has a unique defense mechanism; when threatened, it can secrete toxins from its skin that can be harmful to potential predators, making it a less appealing target
QUICK INFO
Lifespan5-10 years in the wild, up to 15 in captivity
Average Weight100-200 g
Average Length7-15 cm
Diet TypeInsectivore
Social Structuresolitary, occasionally found in pairs during breeding
Activity PatternNocturnal
Breeding SeasonRainy season (June-August)
- Habitat
- This species thrives in a range of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and urban areas. It prefers moist environments where it can easily find food and shelter.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest, Temperate Forest, Grassland
- Native Range
- The Black-Spined Toad is native to South and Southeast Asia, including countries like India, Bangladesh, and Thailand.
- Continent
- Asia
- Countries
- India, Bangladesh, Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam
- Diet
- The Black-Spined Toad primarily feeds on insects and other small invertebrates. It uses its sticky tongue to capture prey, showcasing its insectivorous diet.
- Diet Type
- Insectivore
- Favorite Food
- insects, worms
- Social Structure
- solitary, occasionally found in pairs during breeding
- Activity Pattern
- Nocturnal
- Group Size
- 1-2
- Territorial
- 0
VU
LC
100-200 g
Weight
7-15 cm
Length
- Coloration
- dark brown to gray with black spines and lighter underbelly
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males are generally smaller than females
- Lifespan
- 5-10 years in the wild, up to 15 in captivity
- Offspring per Birth
- 1000-2000 eggs
- Sexual Maturity
- 2-3 years
- Breeding Season
- Rainy season (June-August)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of Black-Spined Toads is currently stable, though 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 pollution. Additionally, they face risks from road traffic and predation by domestic animals.
- Predators
- birds, snakes, larger mammals
- Defense Mechanisms
- The Black-Spined Toad has toxic skin secretions that deter many predators.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon