GIANT FIRE-BELLIED TOAD
Bombina maxima
DESCRIPTION
Giant fire-bellied toad (Bombina maxima) is commonly known as the Chinese fire-bellied toad. This amphibian is characterized by its striking coloration, featuring a dark green or brown dorsal side and a vibrant orange or red underside, which serves as a warning to potential predators. They are semi-aquatic and are often found in slow-moving water bodies, where they exhibit a unique behavior of inflating their bodies to display their bright bellies when threatened.
FUN FACTS
- Giant fire-bellied toads are known for their unique mating calls, which can be quite loud and are used to attract females during the breeding season
- Additionally, their bright coloration is not just for show; it serves as a warning to predators about their toxicity, making them less likely to be eaten.|These toads have a fascinating ability to inflate their bodies when threatened, showcasing their vibrant undersides as a defense mechanism
- This behavior not only deters predators but also makes them appear larger and more intimidating
QUICK INFO
Lifespan5-10 years in the wild, up to 15 years in captivit
Average Weight30-50 g
Average Length5-10 cm
Diet TypeInsectivore
Social StructureThey are typically solitary outside of the breeding season, coming together only to mate.
Activity PatternNocturnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (March-May)
- Habitat
- These toads inhabit freshwater environments such as ponds, marshes, and slow-moving streams. They prefer areas with abundant vegetation that provide cover and breeding sites.
- Biomes
- Temperate Forest, Freshwater
- Native Range
- The native range of the Giant fire-bellied toad includes parts of eastern Asia, particularly in China and surrounding regions.
- Continent
- Asia
- Countries
- China, Vietnam, Laos
- Diet
- Giant fire-bellied toads primarily consume small invertebrates, including insects and worms. They are opportunistic feeders and will eat whatever small prey is available in their habitat.
- Diet Type
- Insectivore
- Favorite Food
- insects, worms
- Social Structure
- They are typically solitary outside of the breeding season, coming together only to mate.
- Activity Pattern
- Nocturnal
- Group Size
- 1-10
- Territorial
- 0
VU
LC
30-50 g
Weight
5-10 cm
Length
- Coloration
- Dark green or brown on the back with bright orange or red on the underside.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are usually smaller and have more vibrant coloration than females.
- Lifespan
- 5-10 years in the wild, up to 15 years in captivit
- Offspring per Birth
- 100-200 eggs
- Sexual Maturity
- 1-2 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (March-May)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of Giant fire-bellied toads is currently stable, but they face threats from habitat loss.
- Wild Population Estimate
- Unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to urbanization and pollution. Additionally, they are sometimes collected for the pet trade.
- Predators
- Birds, snakes, and larger amphibians are known predators of the Giant fire-bellied toad.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They exhibit aposematic coloration, which warns predators of their potential toxicity.
- Compatible Animals
- Other small amphibians, certain fish species
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon