Agua Toad is a colloquial term used to refer to a specific species of toad known as Rhinella marina. This amphibian belongs to the Bufonidae family and is commonly found in the coastal regions of Central and South America, including countries such as Mexico, Belize, Honduras, Costa Rica, and Venezuela.
The Agua Toad is characterized by its robust body, strong limbs, and warty skin. It can reach lengths of up to 8 inches, making it one of the largest toad species in its habitat. The coloration of the Agua Toad varies depending on its surroundings, ranging from dark brown to greenish-gray. One of its distinctive features is the presence of conspicuous parotoid glands behind its eyes, which secrete toxins as a defense mechanism against predators.
Agua Toads are primarily nocturnal creatures, spending their days hiding under leaf litter, logs, or rocks near bodies of water such as ponds, swamps, or slow-moving rivers. They are opportunistic feeders, preying on a variety of small invertebrates, including insects, spiders, and worms.
During the rainy season, the Agua Toads engage in breeding activities. Males emit a loud, distinctive call to attract females. After mating, the female lays long strings of eggs in the water, which hatch into tadpoles within a few days. These tadpoles undergo metamorphosis, transforming into tiny toadlets, which eventually leave the water to inhabit the surrounding terrestrial habitat.
In some regions, the Agua Toad is considered an invasive species, as it can negatively impact local ecosystems and native wildlife by outcompeting native amphibians and preying on small animals. However, in its native range, it plays a
