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How did this toad conquer Asia's cities and farmlands? Learn the secrets of its adaptation!
In recent years, the Asian common toad (Duttaphrynus melanostictus) has spread rapidly across Asia, becoming a key species affecting ecosystems. This toad has a strong ability to adapt. It can not only survive in urban environments, but also invade farmland, posing a threat to the local ecology. This article will explore the characteristics of this toad, its ecological behavior and its spread in different regions, and discuss its potential impacts on local ecosystems.
Species characteristics
The common Asian toad can grow up to 20 cm in length and can be found in most areas. Features include:
There are multiple bony ridges on the top of the head, the distance between the eyes is wider than the upper eyelids, and the eardrums are obvious, with the distance from the eyes to the level being about two-thirds of the diameter of the eyes.
In addition, this toad has a distinct warty belly on the surface of its skin and possesses kidney-shaped or oval glands that secrete white toad toxin.
Ecology and Behavior
The Asian common toad breeds mainly in still water and slow-flowing rivers and ponds. Adult toads usually live on the ground, especially in habitats under rocks, leaf litter and tree trunks, and are often associated with human settlements. Their larvae develop in standing water, usually found near street lights at night.
The toad feeds on a variety of invertebrates, including scorpions. Remarkably, toad larvae are able to recognize their siblings and metamorphose faster in groups of similar kin.
Distribution and habitat
The Asian common toad is widely distributed in South Asia and Southeast Asia, from northern Pakistan to southern China, including Taiwan, Hong Kong and Singapore. Its living environment is mostly disturbed lowland habitats, even in cities and farmlands. This toad can survive at altitudes up to 1,800 meters, but is less common in closed forests.
Introduction and expansion
Madagascar
The Asian toad entered Madagascar in 2011 and spread rapidly soon after. Experts are concerned that if epidemic prevention measures are not immediately strengthened, there may be serious impacts on the local ecology.
West Papua and Volatia
In addition, this species has also been found on Indonesian islands such as Bali and Sulawesi, and lacks resistance to toad toxins, which threatens the survival of the native species.
Australia's future
Signs of the Asian common toad have also appeared in Australia, and are considered an introduced species of concern. In fact, the presence of this toad in this country may cause more serious ecological problems than the cane toad.
ConclusionExperts called on the Australian government to develop a high-priority emergency response plan and strengthen environmental quarantine and monitoring measures.
The common Asian toad, due to its strong adaptability and reproductive capacity, is posing a potential survival crisis in many ecosystems around the world. As its spread continues to grow, how should humans respond and protect the survival of native species?
