Tadpole Tidbits

In addition to the Tadpole Tidbits found throughout Tully’s story, here are some more!

Tadpoles:

1. Tadpoles are the larval stage of amphibians, including frogs, toads, and newts.
2. They hatch from eggs laid in water by adult frogs or toads.
3. Tadpoles have a distinct appearance with a tail for swimming and gills for breathing underwater.
4. As tadpoles grow, they undergo metamorphosis, during which they develop legs, lose their tails, and transform into adult frogs or toads.
5. Tadpoles primarily feed on algae, plants, and small organic particles found in the water.
6. Some species of tadpoles have specialized mouthparts for grazing on plants, while others are omnivorous and may eat small insects and other aquatic creatures.
7. Tadpoles are more vulnerable to predation due to their aquatic lifestyle, and many animals, including fish and insects, prey on them.
8. Their growth rate can vary based on factors like temperature, food availability, and species.
9. Tadpoles communicate using vibrations, movements, and chemicals to signal distress or establish territory.
10. Some tadpoles have developed adaptations to survive in temporary or harsh aquatic environments, such as those prone to drying up.

Toads:

1. Toads are amphibians belonging to the order Anura, which also includes frogs.
2. They have dry, warty skin compared to the smoother skin of frogs.
3. Toads tend to have a more terrestrial lifestyle compared to frogs, often living in drier environments.
4. Most toads have shorter legs than frogs, which makes them better adapted for hopping rather than leaping.
5. Toads have specialized glands behind their eyes called parotoid glands that secrete toxins. These toxins discourage predators from eating them and can cause irritation to the skin and mucous membranes of potential predators.
6. Despite their toxic secretions, some predators like snakes, birds, and mammals have evolved ways to eat toads without being affected by their toxins.
7. Many toad species are nocturnal and are more active during the night, which helps them avoid high daytime temperatures and potential predators.
8. Toads hibernate during the colder months, burrowing underground or finding shelter in crevices to escape the cold.
9. The cane toad, also known as the bufo toad, is an invasive species introduced to various regions to control agricultural pests. However, it has caused ecological imbalances due to its toxic nature and rapid reproduction.
10. Toads play a role in controlling insect populations as they feed on a variety of insects, including pests like mosquitoes and flies.