Phrynoidis juxtasper (Inger, 1964)

Taxonomic Identification

Phrynoidis juxtasper is a species of large toad.

Size

Males reach 122 mm (4.8 in) and females reach 215 mm (8.5 in) in snout–vent length.

General Body Structure

They have a stocky body build with relatively long limbs, an obtusely pointed snout, and a distinct tympanum.

Head and Gland Features

Their supratympanic bony crests are thick, and their parotoid glands are large.

Skin Texture

Their skin is covered in large, round warts, while the ventral skin has a granular texture.

Wart and Limb Features

The warts on the head, trunk, and limbs have melanic spinules at their tips, and their toes have extensive webbing.

Defensive Toxicity

When disturbed, these toads can secrete large volumes of a highly toxic, milky poison from their warts; their eggs and tadpoles are also poisonous.

Habitat

The natural habitats of Phrynoidis juxtasper are primary and secondary forests, where they are most often found along rocky creeks and riverbanks.

Locomotion

They are strong swimmers and jumpers.

Conservation Status and Threats

This is a relatively adaptable species that is not facing significant threats, though large individuals are occasionally hunted for human consumption.