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The cane toad is a large toad species native to Central and South America.

Agriculture Encyclopedia By Emily Carter 0 views
2019-07-12 Source:Nongxun.net Author: Nongxun

The cane toad, also known as the marine toad, is a large toad of the family Bufonidae in the order Anura of the class Amphibia, native to Central and South America. It gets the name cane toad because it was historically introduced by humans into sugarcane-growing areas to prey on pests that harm sugarcane. Its appearance is similar to that of common toads, with rough skin covered in many warts, a back that is mostly grayish-brown or yellowish-brown, distinct parotoid glands on the sides of the head, and a body size on the larger side among toads.

The cane toad hides by day and comes out at night, mostly active and foraging at night and after rain. Its diet is very varied, consisting mainly of insects and other small invertebrates, and it will occasionally eat even smaller animals. Its reproductive capacity is strong; during the breeding season it often lays long strings of eggs in still waters, and the tadpoles develop quickly. Its tolerance of the environment is relatively good among amphibians, which is one reason it readily settles and reproduces in places where it is introduced.

Like other toads, the cane toad's parotoid glands and skin glands can secrete a milky white venom that is quite toxic; eating it by mistake or having it eaten by a domestic pet can both cause poisoning, so extra care is needed when handling it. Precisely because it reproduces quickly and has few natural enemies, it is listed as an invasive species in many places where it has been introduced, putting pressure on local ecosystems. Before keeping or making use of this kind of toad, one should first learn the relevant local regulations, and never release it at will.

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