A species of toad belonging to the Bufonidae family is called Bufo bankorensis. It is widespread and indigenous to Taiwan. It can be found up to 9,800 feet above sea level. Although there have been questions regarding its distinctness from Bufo gargarizans from China and other species, it is presently thought to be a legitimate species.
Conservation and Habitat
Bufo bankorensis can be found in a variety of habitats, including broadleaf forests, cultivated fields, mixed forests, and orchards. On rainy nights, you can spot them scavenging for insects under streetlights. Streams and ponds are equally suitable places for breeding. According to one study, subtropical populations could only reproduce from September to March, but temperate populations could do so throughout the entire year.
Despite the fact that Bufo bankorensis is a widespread species, habitat degradation still poses a threat to it. Additionally, it is harvested for traditional medicine and food.
Appearance
The largest species of frog known in Taiwan is Bufo bankorensis, with adult males measuring 60–110 mm and females measuring 36.5–104 mm from snout to vent. The head’s width and length are roughly equal. Tympana are tiny, roughly one-third the size of the eyes, and mostly skin-covered. Kidney bean-shaped parotoid glands are found. Warts cover the dorsal surfaces and limbs. Short hind limbs are present. There is webbing on four out of the five toes. The colour of the dorsal region can range and be reddish, yellowish, greenish, or dark brown. Additionally, there are variations in patterning, with some people having dorsolateral black stripes that run beneath each parotid gland. The presence of black or orange-reddish dots is optional. Tadpoles are roughly 36 mm long overall, with heads measuring 13.3 mm. Blackish brown bodies and tails have a gray tail tip.
Reproduction
They can reproduce sexually. They use saltation as a means of locomotion. They reproduce in permanent pools and streams. Long strands of black, pearl-like eggs are laid (ymsnp.gov.tw). Tadpoles form big clusters and hatch in approximately five days. They are dark black in hue. Tadpoles use algae and humus as food.
Relationship to People
In Taiwan, Bufo bankorensis skin and skin secretions are occasionally used for traditional medical treatments. The parotid glands’ white fluid is extracted, formed into a dry paste, and then consumed. It is thought that the paste acts as a diuretic and an antidote.
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