black spined toad

The Black Spined Toad is found in China, southern Asia, India, Pakistan, Nepal and Indonesia. It is related to the Cane Toad and in Australia, has no natural predators. Australia is free from the Black Spined Toad and we want to keep it that way.

What is the risk to Australia?

The Black Spined Toad is potentially more damaging than the Cane Toad and could establish in the cooler parts of Australia. Being a carnivore, the Black Spined Toad could cause a great deal of damage to Australia’s natural environment. It competes with native frogs and toads for food and habitats, and is likely to carry exotic parasites or diseases.

What does the Black Spined Toad look like?

An adult looks very similar to the Cane Toad, however does not grow as big. It has short brown to black spines on the upper body and sides. The warts on its back are stained black by the toxins it produces to ward off predators. Underneath the warts, the colour of the toad can vary from olive, orange brown or dark red.

It has black-tipped, hooked toes on it front limbs and a black rim extending from the top lip to above the eye.

The belly is pale to light brown in colour with brown spots appearing towards the throat.

What to look for

The Black Spined Toad is commonly found on international vessels, shipping containers, machinery and personal effects such as bags, boxes and cartons. It likes to shelter in dark, moist areas such as shoes. It is often seen at night under street lamps, especially during summer when winged termites swarm.

What to do if you find any suspect toads

• SEE. SECURE. REPORT.
  
• If you SEE any suspect findings, SECURE them where possible and immediately REPORT them to AQIS on 1800 020 504.
  
• Consult AQIS entomologists prior to handling or collecting specimens.

More information

website
Phone: 1800 020 504 Freecall within Australia