Eastern Narrow-mouthed Toad

About the Eastern Narrow-mouthed Toad

Gastrophryne carolinensis, the eastern narrow-mouthed toad, is a species of microhylid frog. It is a relatively small, toad-like amphibian found in damp, shady habitats. The species is highly fossorial, and feeds primarily on ants. These North American microhylids (Family: Microhylidae) are distinguished from true toads (genus Bufo), and other anurans by their moist, smooth skin, their lack of eardrums or tympana, their distinguishable squat body shape, and the unique fold of skin superior to their eyes. It is found in the United States, from southern Maryland to the Florida Keys, west to Missouri, Arkansas and Texas. While not a true toad, it is so called because it is terrestrial.

Gastrophryne carolinensis belongs to one of the largest anuran families, the microhylids. No subspecies are currently recognized. The eastern narrowmouth toad is one of only three microhylids that currently live in the United States.

The eastern narrow-mouthed toad is relatively small, growing to a maximum length of 53 mm (2.1 in). It has an oval-shaped body and a narrow head with a pointed snout. On the back of their head, they have a fold of skin that is capable of covering... Wikipedia →