What Are Tree Toads?

Toads are amphibious creatures similar to frogs. As with all animals, there are several varieties of toads. Some types of toad are known to dwell in trees. With the prevalence of tree frogs and the similarities between toads and frogs, tree toads and tree frogs can be difficult to tell apart.

  1. Tree Toad Basics

    • Tree toads are similar to other kinds of toads with the exception that they can live in trees while other toads are basal, or consigned to live on the base level of their habitat. Some toads that are called tree toads, such as South America's Dendrophryniscus, can be observed crawling along the ground instead of climbing trees. They do sometimes lay their eggs in the tops of plants however. Most tree toads spend their days on the ground, but crawl into the treetops at night to avoid nocturnal predators.

    Frogs vs. Toads

    • Toads and frogs are both amphibians, but there are several differences between these two creatures. Frogs have moist, smooth skin while toads have dry skin covered in small wart-like bumps. Toads also do not have teeth, unlike frogs. Frogs have longer legs than toads. Tree frogs use these legs to leap from branch to branch. Tree toads use their shorter legs to crawl. Frogs also lay their eggs in clusters while toads lay theirs in chains. The Collins English Dictionary actually defines "tree toad" as a "less common name for tree frog," but these differences must be noted when scientifically referring to amphibians that are part of the toad family.

    Taxonomy

    • All toads, including tree toads, belong to the order Anura. The family varies from toad to toad, but many toads are part of the Bufonidae family. In fact, the Bufonidae family is composed exclusively of toads. This includes the African Tree Toad, whose scientific name is Nectophryne afra. The South American toad is also a member of the Bufonidae family as are those in Asia. Tree toads, being members of the Bufonidae family, are called bufonids.

    Habitat

    • Tree toads live in South America, Africa and Asia. In South America, these toads have been found on the slopes of the Andes and in the mountains of Venezuela and Guyana. In Africa they live in the southern regions of Nigeria and through the southern parts of Cameroon as well as in Equatorial Guinea, Gabon and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Asian tree toads live in the forested regions of India. The states of Kerala and Goa specifically are home to the Malabar tree toad.