What is the difference between a frog and a toad?

A giant frog.

Frogs and toads are amphibians of the same taxonomic order, but belong to different families (Ranidae and Bufonidae, respectively). Most Ranidae species have smooth, moist skin, a narrow body, long legs, and teeth on the upper jaw. Members of the Bufonidae family have patchy skin, a short body, stubby legs, and often lack teeth. Each can use venom as a defense, but in Ranidae, it is secreted through the skin, while in Bufonidae, it is kept in venom sacs behind the eyes. Although both animals are found throughout the world, frogs prefer moist environments, while toads like dry conditions.

Classification

A frog.

Technically, the two animals are in the order Anura, so taxonomically speaking, there is no difference between the two. “True” frogs belong to the Ranidae family, which has about 400 species. Members of the family Bufonidae are the “true” frogs. Scientists have identified about 300 species. In some cases, it is difficult to distinguish between animals because characteristics normally associated with one family are present in the other.

Geographic location

The frogs’ home range is a bit more spread out. They live everywhere except Antarctica. Toads are not found in Madagascar, Australia, New Guinea and the polar regions.

Body and leg shape

In general, a frog’s body tends to be short. Their legs are usually robust. This gives it a rounded, stocky, or stocky appearance. Frogs look slightly slimmer and have elongated legs.

skin texture

A frog.

A species of the Ranidae family usually has smooth skin. When it is removed from the water, it has a velvety or slimy feel because it secretes mucus. This forms a protective barrier on the skin that keeps it moist. Most members of the Bufonidae family have dry, bumpy skin, which is often described as warty.

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Eyes

Often a person can tell which amphibian they are dealing with by looking at the animal’s eyes. Frogs’ eyes bulge out of their heads. They are usually very round. In contrast, a frog’s eyes are fixed and do not protrude.

teeth and snout

The main difference between these two amphibians is that the Ranidae have teeth. They are found only in the upper jaw. The noses of these species also tend to be longer, matching the general shape of their long body. Jesters are toothless and have short, blunt noses. Despite this, both animals eat roughly the same type of diet, which includes organisms such as insects, larvae, worms, snails, and very small fish.

potion

Members of the Bufonidae family are the only ones with visible venom pockets behind their eyes. However, some species belonging to the Ranidae family can still use poison as a defense. They secrete poison through their skin instead of having pockets of poison. The bright colors often warn predators that the amphibian is not safe to eat.

Ambient

All the differences that toads and frogs exhibit are adaptations that help members of each family survive in different environments. In general, Ranidae need to live near water and normally lay eggs in groups. Jesters prefer dry environments and tend to lay their eggs in chains. Frogs’ long legs, along with the webs often found on their feet, help them swim and jump long distances. The short legs of frogs are much better suited for short hopping or walking on land.

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