Great Plains Narrowmouth Toad
Gastrophryne olivacea
Gastrophryne olivacea
| Size: 3/4 - 1 1/4 inches |
| Distribution |
| Central 1/2 of the state. Like the eastern narrowmouth toad, the great plains narrowmouth toad, has a plump, flattened body with a comparatively small head, and a fold of skin behind the eyes to act as a wiper while feeding on their favorite prey, ants and termites. This secretive frog is a nocturnal species, prefering to spend most of the day under moist logs and in burrows, and has an unusual symbiotic relationship (mutualism) with the Oklahoma brown tarantula, Aphonapelma hentzi. The tarantula provides protection for the frogs from would-be predators, and the frogs protect the tarantulas from small ants that could pose a potential threat to the tarantulas and their spiderlings. These frogs breed during the summer and the males call can be easily identified as a short buzzing sound somewhat like a lamb. |