Kingdom animalia
Phylum Chordata
Class Amphibia
Order Anura
Family buffoon
Cane toad is the popular name given to the anuran amphibians of the Bufonidae family. In Brazil we have more than 65 species belonging to this group.
The main characteristic of these animals is the thick skin and rich in glands. The legs are short, the body is broad, and their habits are more terrestrial than other amphibians. Generally, they resort to aquatic environments only in reproductive seasons, and for spawning. During these periods, like many other amphibians, males tend to vocalize (coach) as a mating strategy, attracting females. They usually feed on small flying invertebrates, captured with their elastic and sticky tongue.
Sympathy for these animals is not usually common. This is mainly due to three facts: they are associated with bad omens; the unattractive appearance, conventionally speaking; and the fear of being hit by his “squirts” of poison. Such facts reflect the lack of knowledge that the population, in general, has about the cururus, since a strong and erroneous cultural character is perceived in these statements. These animals are responsible for controlling mosquitoes, including those that transmit diseases, such as Aedes aegypti; the substances they excrete can be used in the production of medicines, such as drugs for cancer and leprosy.
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As for the “spray of poison in the eyes”, we can say that this is not quite the case. This substance is expelled only when the paratoid gland, located behind the eyes and eardrums, is pressed. Thus, we have two points for reflection: the inexistence of a real need to tighten such places; and also the fact that, even in these situations, the release of the “poisonous milk” is not so strong that it squirts or even reaches the eyes.
Now that you know the Cane Toads more completely, it's wise to rethink whether you've really treated them as they deserve, that is: with respect!
By Mariana Araguaia
Graduated in Biology
Brazil School Team
Vertebrates -Animals -Brazil School
Would you like to reference this text in a school or academic work? Look:
ARAGUAIA, Mariana. "Cane toad (Family Bufonidae)"; Brazil School. Available in: https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/animais/sapocururu-familia-bufonidae.htm. Accessed on June 27, 2021.