Common midwife toad
A species of Midwife toads Scientific name : Alytes obstetricans Genus : Midwife toads
Common midwife toad, A species of Midwife toads
Scientific name: Alytes obstetricans
Genus: Midwife toads
Content
Description General Info
Description
The common midwife toad (Alytes obstetricans) is a species of midwife frog in the family Alytidae (formerly Discoglossidae). It is found in Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom (although, in the latter, only as an introduction). Like other members of its genus (Alytes), the male toad carries the eggs around entwined on his back and thighs until they are ready to hatch.
General Info
Lifespan
5-10 years
Diet
Common midwife toad's diet primarily includes small invertebrates. It specifically favours beetles, spiders, slugs, and earthworms. Occasionally, they consume other tiny amphibians or amphibian larvae when available.
Appearance
Common midwife toad is a small amphibian with a rounded body and leathery skin, only reaching up to 5 centimeters long. Its gray to brown coloration is dotted with darker and lighter spots, providing effective camouflage. Males and females are similar in appearance, though pregnant females carry eggs on their back, where they become visible as they develop.
Behavior
Common midwife toad is a terrestrial species known for its unusual reproductive behavior. The male carries fertilized eggs on his back until they hatch, protecting them from predators. Solitary outside the breeding season, they only form temporary pairings for mating which leads to aggressive territorial behavior. Vocal communication forms an essential part of their courtship rituals.
Population
Decreasing
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Amphibians Order
Frogs and toads Family
Painted frogs Genus
Midwife toads Species
Common midwife toad 
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