Surinam Toad
Pipa pipa
Conservation Status
Least ConcernAmphibia · Anura · Pipidae
About
The common Surinam toad, the Suriname toad, or star-fingered toad, is a fully-aquatic species of frog, in the family Pipidae, with a widespread range across much of tropical South America and the island of Trinidad. The females of this species are well-known for "incubating" their eggs on their backs, in honeycomb-like depressions directly within the skin, releasing fully-formed froglets after a period of 4–5 months. Pipa pipa is an ambush predator, lying in-wait underwater for prey to inevitably wander too close, swiftly inhaling the unsuspecting creature using suction feeding. Additionally, the Surinam toad's rather flat body shape, combined with rather dark, dull coloration, serves as effective camouflage in the murky waters they inhabit, perfectly mimicking a dead leaf or piece of rotting wood as they await their next meal.
Fun Fact
Female Surinam toads carry fertilized eggs embedded in the skin of their backs, where the young complete their entire development and emerge as fully-formed froglets.
Quick Facts
Habitat
To be updated
Diet
Eat their own skin which is common among amphibians.
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance