Rhinella crucifer facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Rhinella crucifer |
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The Rhinella crucifer is a type of toad that belongs to the family called Bufonidae, which includes many different kinds of "true toads." This toad is only found in Brazil. It lives in the Atlantic Forest region of eastern Brazil, stretching from the state of Ceará in the north down to Rio de Janeiro in the south. People often call it the striped toad because of its markings.
Sometimes, you might hear about "Rhinella pombali." This is actually a hybrid, which means it's a mix between two different toad species: Rhinella ornata and the Rhinella crucifer.
What Does It Look Like?
Male Rhinella crucifer toads are usually about 56–104 mm (2.2–4.1 in) long from their snout to their bottom. Female toads are a bit bigger, measuring around 78–114 mm (3.1–4.5 in).
Their head is wide, and their snout (nose area) can be rounded or slightly pointed when you look at it from above. From the side, the snout looks rounded. They have a clear tympanum, which is like an eardrum, on the side of their head.
The toad's body is strong and chunky. It has special glands called parotoid glands, which are shaped like ovals or triangles. These glands stick out over the sides of its body. These glands can release a milky substance that helps protect the toad from predators.
Its front legs are long and stronger than its back legs. The fingers on its front feet do not have webbing, but they have a small fringe. The toes on its back feet are long and have webbing between them, which helps them swim.
The toad's back can be different colors, like yellowish-brown, olive green, brownish, or even silvery. Sometimes, you might see a thin, light line running down the middle of its back.
Where It Lives and How We Protect It
The Rhinella crucifer toad lives in rainforests and other areas that have been changed by people, like farms. It can be found at heights up to 900 m (3,000 ft) above sea level.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
These toads lay their eggs and reproduce in calm areas of fast-flowing streams. They also use temporary pools of water that form after rain.
This toad species is quite common in the places where it lives. However, its home is being lost because of things like farming and cutting down trees for wood. These activities destroy the forests where the toads live. Luckily, the Rhinella crucifer can be found in several protected areas, which helps keep their populations safe.
