Frogs and toads are some of the most well known amphibians in the world. While they share many characteristics and physical traits, they have unique qualities and behaviors.
So, what really is the difference between a frog and toad?
The TL;DR
When it comes to classification, all toads are frogs – but not all frogs are toads.
Toads are a common name for some frogs that belong to the Bufonidae family. This family still falls under the Anura order, also commonly known as ‘frogs’.
There’s no scientific taxonomic basis for these labels, and often they can be confused.
Frogs have longer legs which are designed for leaping and hopping. Toad legs are shorter as they prefer to crawl.
Differences in their skin make toads more well suited for certain climates and habitats. Frogs tend to prefer more moist environments.
Frogs and toads generally rely on different defense mechanisms to protect themselves.
Read on for the detail.
The Difference Between Frogs and Toads
At first glance, frogs and toads look very similar. However, there are actually many key differences between them.
Both frogs and toads are amphibians. Amphibians are small vertebrates that need water to survive. This group includes animals like frogs, toads, salamanders, and newts. They are cold-blooded and use their skin to absorb nutrients, breathe, and produce proteins.
The word “amphibian” comes from a Greek term meaning “double life”. They are capable of living in water and on land. Some are born with gills and lose them as they mature while others hold onto them for their entire lifespan.
Both frogs and toads are fascinating creatures that have captivated the curiosity of researchers and nature enthusiasts. So, what sets them apart?
What Is a Frog?
True frogs belong to the family Ranidae under the Anura order. There are over 5,000 species of frogs and scientists are continuing to discover new species.
Years of evolution have given frogs long hind legs that are significantly more powerful than their front legs. These make them exceptional jumpers and well-adapted for leaping through their habitats. Their long legs also make them expert swimmers.
The texture of their skin might be the easiest way to tell a frog and toad apart. Frogs are sleek and smooth. They looks wet even when they are out of water due to mucus glands present on their skin’s surface.
Many frogs have evolved color patterns to help them blend into their surroundings. Camouflage helps frogs avoid detection, making it difficult for predators to spot them.
What Is a Toad?
True toads belong to the Bufonidae family under the Anura order. There are more than 300 species found worldwide.
Toads have hind legs that are shorter and more muscular. They tend to hop rather than leap. Like frogs, toads also lack tails.
Contrary to true frogs, toads have rough, bumpy skin that looks warty and not as slimy. Due to their skin, toads tend to excel in drier terrestrial habitats, such as woodlands and grasslands. They still need water for reproducing and breeding, but they tend to lay their eggs in shallower waters.
Toads have specialized glands on their skin that secrete toxins and other defensive chemicals. They can use the bumps on their skin to store these toxins, only employing them when faced with a threat.
Summary
All toads are frogs, but not all frogs are toads. The common name used for toads is actually still a family of frogs, with different characteristics and behavior than your average frog.
This distinction between frogs and toads is not based upon scientific taxonomy as you might expect, but human culture and how they are perceived to be grouped.
While both frogs and toads belong to the Anura order, they have notable differences in their physical characteristics, habitat preferences, and behavior.
Frogs, with their smooth skin, tend to favor aquatic environments and are agile swimmers, while toads, with their rough skin, are more adaptable to drier habitats.
Both frogs and toads play critical roles in their ecosystems, interacting with the many organisms they share their homes with. Their unique life cycles and survival strategies continue to inspire research and conservation efforts.
Now you know the difference between frogs and toads!