About Schismaderma carens (Smith, 1848)
Scientific Classification and General Size
The African red toad, scientifically named Schismaderma carens (Smith, 1848), is a fairly large toad species. Adult individuals reach a snout-to-vent length of approximately 90 millimetres (3.5 inches), and females are slightly larger than males.
Dorsal Coloration and Markings
The upper body surface is reddish-brown, with one pair of dark brown spots on the shoulders and a second pair on the lower back.
Dorso-Lateral Ridge Characteristics
A glandular dorso-lateral ridge runs from the tympanum to the back leg, and the outer portion of this ridge has a darker lower edge.
Flank Color Variation
Flank color varies among individuals: some have dark flanks, while others have pale flanks.
Native Geographic Range
This toad is native to the southern half of Africa. Its range extends from Tanzania and southern Kenya, through the southeastern Democratic Republic of Congo and eastern Angola, and continues southward to South Africa.
Non-Breeding Habitat
It can be found in multiple different habitat types, including grassland, wooded savannah, and agricultural land.
Breeding Habitat
It breeds in deep lakes, ponds, and pools.
