Midwife toad facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Midwife toad |
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| Alytes obstetricans | |
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Alytes
Wagler, 1830
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Alytes cisternasii Boscá, 1879. |
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The Midwife toad (Alytes) is a special kind of frog. They are part of the Discoglossidae family. These toads live in most parts of Europe and northwestern Africa. They look a bit like toads because their skin is rough. They are famous for how the male parent takes care of the eggs.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Midwife toads get their name from their unique way of raising their young. The male Midwife toad is an amazing dad! After the female lays her eggs, the male wraps them around his back legs. He carries them everywhere he goes. This protects the eggs from hungry animals. He even takes them with him when he hunts for food.
When the baby toads are ready to hatch, the male goes to the water. He dips his legs into a pond or stream. This allows the tiny tadpoles to swim free. They then begin their lives in the water.
Species of Midwife Toads
There are several different kinds of Midwife toads. Here are the main species:
| Binomial Name and Author | Common Name |
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| Alytes cisternasii (Boscá, 1879) | Iberian Midwife Toad |
| Alytes dickhilleni (Arntzen & García Paris, 1995) | Betic Midwife Toad |
| Alytes maurus (Pasteur & Bons, 1962) | |
| Alytes muletensis (Sanchiz & Adrover, 1979) | Mallorcan midwife toad |
| Alytes obstetricans (Laurenti, 1768) | Common Midwife Toad |
See also
In Spanish: Sapos parteros para niños
