Order Anura Higher classification Toads | Phylum Chordata Family Bufonidae Scientific name Bufo blombergi Rank Species | |
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Similar True toad, Toads, Frog, Amphibians, Rhaebo | ||
Blomberg's toad (Rhaebo blombergi), also known as the Colombian giant toad, is a very large species of toad in the family Bufonidae. It is found in rainforests at altitudes between 200 and 650 metres (660 and 2,130 ft) in western Colombia (Chocó, Valle del Cauca, Cauca, and Nariño Departments) and northwestern Ecuador (Carchi, Esmeraldas, and Imbabura Provinces). It has been recorded in Florida in 1963, apparently because of pet escape or release, but did not get established.
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Etymology
This species epithet commemorates Swedish explorer Rolf Blomberg who collected the type series.
Description
Rhaebo blombergi are very large toads: males measure 15–17 cm (5.9–6.7 in) and females 2.0–2.5 cm (0.79–0.98 in) in snout–vent length.
Life history
Fecundity of captive individuals has been 15,000–80,000 eggs of 1–2 mm (0.039–0.079 in) in diameter. Captive individuals have an average lifespan of ten years, with the maximum reported age of 28 years.
Habitat and conservation
Rhaebo blombergi inhabit closed lowland tropical rainforest. They breed in pools, both temporary and permanent. It is locally common but considered near threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) because of habitat loss and pollution. It is also collected for pet trade.