The legs and skin of toads and Frogs are different. The scientific order Anura includes the frog and toad.
Frogs have silky skin and longer legs, whereas toads have warty skin and heavyset bodies.
More than 300 species of true toads are members of the family Bufonidae, whereas 400 species of true toads are members of the family Ranidae.
Here are some distinguishing characteristics to help you know the difference between a true frog and a true toad.
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Frogs have long legs for hopping, while toads have shorter legs for walking, according to Wildlife Preservation Canada. Their skin is different, with toads having dry skin covered inwarts and parotoid glands that help toads defend against predators.
The San Diego Zoo says that true frog have smooth, moist skin and pads on their toes to help with climbing.
Frogs lay their eggs in a cluster that resembles a bunch of grapes, according to Wildlife Preservation Canada.
Not all toads are easy to distinguish, leading biologists to argue over the definition.
The Exploratorium, a San Francisco science museum, has an online exhibit about the differences between frog and toad skin. Many species will fit into either category.
Frog and toad appearance can be used to signal their defense. The San Diego Zoo said that people with brightly colored bodies are advertising to enemies that they have toxic skin. The zoo said that Frogs and toads use camouflage to hide. The Oriental fire-bellied toad uses both strategies, one of which is to arch its body upward to reveal a red belly and warn other animals that it has toxic skin.
The zoo said that toads can make themselves appear bigger and stronger if they are threatened.
It was originally published on Live Science.
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