Amphibians
Andean Toad
Rhinella spinulosa
Breeding in temporary pools at altitudes where few other amphibians survive, an Andean toad ranges across a vast stretch of the mountain range from Peru all the way south into Patagonia.
Overview
The Andean toad, Rhinella spinulosa, is a Least Concern amphibian native to mountain, desert, and grassland habitat across a broad elevational range throughout the Andes. Its tolerance for extreme high-altitude conditions, its exceptionally wide geographic range, and its warty, water-retaining skin make it one of the more physiologically resilient amphibians found anywhere in South America.
A toad built for thin air
Where most amphibians struggle at high elevation, the Andean toad instead thrives across some of the highest and driest terrain in the Andes, its tough skin and opportunistic breeding strategy allowing it to persist where few other frogs or toads can follow.
Status
Least Concern, remaining widespread and generally stable across suitable high-altitude habitat throughout its broad Andean range.
Andean Toad: common questions
How high in elevation can the Andean toad be found?
This species tolerates some of the highest elevations of any toad species in the world, found at altitudes where few other amphibians can survive.
How far does the Andean toad's range extend?
This species ranges across a vast stretch of the Andes, from Peru south through Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina into Patagonia, one of the broadest ranges of any Andean amphibian.
How does the Andean toad avoid drying out?
This species has warty, rough skin typical of true toads, an adaptation that helps reduce water loss in the dry, high-altitude environments across much of its range.
Does the Andean toad have any chemical defences?
Yes, this species secretes mild toxins from glands behind its eyes, a defence shared with many other true toad species around the world.