Common Spadefoot
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 Pelobates fuscus
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| Pelobates fuscus Laurenti, 1768 |
The Common Spadefoot (Pelobates fuscus) is a species of toad of the family Pelobatidae, native to an area extending from central Europe to western Asia. It is also commonly known as the Garlic Toad, the Common Spadefoot Toad and the European Common Spadefoot.
[edit] Physical description
The common spadefoot grows to a length of approximately 6.5 cm for males and 8 cm for females. The skin colouration varies depending upon habitat, gender and region, but is usually light-grey to beige-brown on the dorsal surface. The skin is mottled by darker marks that differ between individuals. The belly is white, sometimes with grey mottling. Albino specimens have been observed.
When alarmed, it can exude a noxious secretion which bears a garlic odour; hence the common name: "garlic toad".
[edit] References
- Kuzmin, S. et al. (2004). Pelobates fuscus. 2006 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. IUCN 2006. Retrieved on 10 May 2006. Database entry includes a range map and justification for why this species is of least concern
- Daniel Frost. Amphibian Species of the World - Pelobates fuscus. Retrieved on 19 February 2006.
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