Nectophrynoides pseudotornieri facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Nectophrynoides pseudotornieri |
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The Nectophrynoides pseudotornieri is a special kind of toad that belongs to the Bufonidae family. It lives only in the Uluguru Mountains in eastern Tanzania. People sometimes call it the pseudo forest toad or the false Tornier's viviparous toad. Its name means it looks a lot like another toad called Nectophrynoides tornieri.
What Does This Toad Look Like?
Male toads of this species grow to about 25 mm (1.0 in) long. This measurement is from their snout (nose) to their urostyle (a bone at the end of their spine). Female toads are a bit bigger, reaching around 29 mm (1.1 in) in length.
This toad has special glands behind its eyes called parotoid glands. They are there but not very easy to see. It does not have a visible eardrum (tympanum). Its fingers and toes are partly webbed, like tiny paddles. The tips of its fingers and toes have flat, rounded pads.
The toad's back is rough and covered with small bumps. It can be tan or golden in color, often with darker marks. Sometimes, you might see golden flecks on its sides. Its belly and underside are creamy white, with a few dots under its throat. The toad's eyes are a striking golden color.
Where Does This Toad Live and Why Is It in Danger?
The Nectophrynoides pseudotornieri lives in the mountain rainforests of the Uluguru Mountains. These forests are on the eastern slopes of the northern part of the mountains. It can be found at heights between 1,080–1,345 m (3,543–4,413 ft) above sea level.
Like other toads in its group, this species likely gives birth to live, tiny toadlets. This is different from most toads that lay eggs.
This special toad lives in only one small area within the Uluguru North Forest Reserve. Even though this area is protected, its home is still shrinking. People are cutting down trees and changing the land inside the reserve. This habitat loss is a big threat to the Nectophrynoides pseudotornieri, making it a very rare and endangered species.
