It's common to hear older people saying that we shouldn't get close to frogs, as they release poison that can damage health. Is this information true? Do these amphibians really release poison?
The vast majority of frogs have poisons in glands on their skin. In the Cane Toad, you can clearly see two venom glands called paratoids that are located just behind the animal's eyes. These glands generally do not release venom in response to an approach. The toxin is only released when the gland is pressed, so it is a passive defense.
When the frog is attacked, as when a dog bites the amphibian, the glands release the venom on the aggressor. The poison usually contains toxins that can cause blindness, vomiting, abdominal pain, seizures and even death.
Although most toads do not display venom behavior, a species of cane toad called rhaebo guttatus has this unusual habit. This species is able to expel the venom without compression of its gland. The jet is so powerful that its venom reaches a distance of almost two meters, proving that the old story of throwing venom is not a lie.
Note the large venom gland located behind the animal's eyes.
It is important to say that the venom of this Amazonian species can cause serious problems in the digestive system, neurotoxic complications, pulmonary edema and even death.
It is worth noting that it is not only frogs that have poisons, frogs and tree frogs also produce important toxic compounds. Among the frog families that produce toxic substances, we can mention Dendrobatidae and Atelopodidae. Regarding tree frogs, the Hylidae and Phylomedusidae families stand out.
Heads up:Many people who don't like this amphibian end up throwing salt on their skin. This process affects the breathing of this animal, which can lead to death. Although their appearance is not very pretty, frogs are essential to the ecosystem as they control pests. So don't kill these amphibians as they are extremely important!
By Ma. Vanessa dos Santos
