Common toad
Bufo spinosus
Amphibia Bufo spinosus is a species commonly found in the Comunidad Valenciana. Known locally as the "Sapo Común," this toad is a prominent amphibian in the region due to its adaptability to diverse habitats.
- Appearance: Bufo spinosus is characterized by its robust, warty skin that provides excellent camouflage in its natural surroundings. It typically exhibits a brown, grey, or olive coloration.
- Size: Adult Bufo spinosus can reach sizes varying from 8 to 13 cm in length, making it one of the larger toad species in the area.
- Habitat: This species is highly versatile, thriving in a variety of environments including woodlands, grasslands, and even semi-arid regions. It is also often found near ponds, streams, and other freshwater sources.
- Behavior: Bufo spinosus is primarily nocturnal, often active after rain when it hunts for insects and other small invertebrates. During the day, it tends to hide under rocks, logs, or burrowed in soft ground to avoid predators and maintain moisture.
- Reproduction: Breeding typically occurs in the spring, where the females lay thousands of eggs in long strings in water bodies. The tadpoles develop in these aquatic environments before metamorphosing into adult toads.
- Conservation Status: Currently, Bufo spinosus is not considered endangered, and its population is stable across its range. However, like many amphibians, it faces threats from habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change.
This species plays an essential role in the ecosystem as both predator and prey, helping maintain balance by controlling insect populations and serving as food for a variety of predators, including birds and mammals.