Yellow-bellied Toad

The yellow-bellied toad, a characteristic inhabitant of wet habitats in Europe, is an important indicator of the ecological health of wetlands. This fact sheet provides a detailed overview of the biology and ecology of the yellow-bellied toad and highlights the importance of protecting its habitats and conserving threatened populations.

Yellow-bellied Toad Products

Profile: Yellow-bellied Toad

  • Scientific classification

    • Class: Amphibia (amphibians)
    • Order: Anura (Anuran)
    • Family: Bombinatoridae (toads and fire salamanders)
    • Genus: Bombina
    • Species: B. variegata (Yellow-bellied Toad)

  • Physical characteristics

    • Size: Average body length of 4-6 cm
    • Special features: Compact body with warty skin, striking yellow to orange belly coloration, dark spots on the back.

  • Habitat and distribution

    • Common regions: Europe, especially in Central and Southern Europe
    • Habitat: Wet, open landscapes such as wet meadows, moors, marshes, ponds and slow-flowing waters.

  • Nutrition

    • Diet: Carnivore
    • Typical food: insects, spiders, worms and other small invertebrates.

  • Reproduction and lifestyle

    • Spawning season: spring to summer
    • Spawning site: Still waters such as ponds, pools or slow-flowing streams
    • Oviposition: Females lay eggs in clumps that stick underwater.
    • Development: Complete metamorphosis from tadpoles to land dwellers.
    • Social structure: Mostly solitary, except during mating season.

  • Lifespan and protection status

    • Life expectancy: Up to 10 years in the wild
    • Endangered status: Threatened by habitat loss, pollution and disease.
    • Conservation measures: protection and conservation of wetlands, restoration of water bodies, monitoring and protection of endangered populations.
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