Alyte de cisternas
A species of Midwife toads Scientific name : Alytes cisternasii Genus : Midwife toads
Alyte de cisternas, A species of Midwife toads
Scientific name: Alytes cisternasii
Genus: Midwife toads
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Carlos Bartolomé La Huerta , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The Iberian midwife toad or brown midwife toad (Alytes cisternasii, in Spanish sapo partero ibérico) is a species of frog in the family Alytidae (formerly Discoglossidae) found in Portugal and western Spain. It is typically found in open habitats such as meadows and open oak forests. Habitat loss is one of the threats to its survival.
General Info
Lifespan
5-7 years
Diet
Alyte de cisternas primarily feeds on small invertebrates, particularly favouring insects like beetles and ants. Seasonal indulgence in spiders demonstrates opportunistic feeding habits and versatile foraging skills.
Appearance
Alyte de cisternas is a small-sized toad with a stocky build and rough, warty skin. Its back and sides are typically brownish-gray, with some individuals displaying a yellowish hue. A characteristic feature is its underbelly, patterned with dark spots on a cream background. Its prominent eyes are typically golden with vertical pupils. There are no remarkable differences in appearance across genders or stages of life.
Behavior
Alyte de cisternas are nocturnal and predominantly terrestrial, known for their distinctive parenting behaviour. Males carry fertilized eggs on their back until they hatch, providing moisture to prevent desiccation. They are solitary except during breeding season. Their call, a series of short, rhythmic croaks, is unique among amphibians, used to mark territory and attract mates.
Population
Decreasing
Photo By Carlos Bartolomé La Huerta , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Amphibians Order
Frogs and toads Family
Painted frogs Genus
Midwife toads Species
Alyte de cisternas