Bombina

Bombina is a genus of amphibians in the family Bombinatoridae, commonly known as fire-bellied toads. Members are small toads with flattened bodies, smooth or faintly granulated skin, and a distinctive ventral coloration: the belly is bright orange to red with dark markings, serving as an aposematic warning against predators. The dorsum is typically olive, brown, or black with irregular patterns. All Bombina species have relatively short limbs and are adept swimmers, most spending much of their time in or near water.

Distribution and habitat: Bombina species are native to Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Asia. They inhabit ponds, marshes, slow streams, and wetlands with ample aquatic vegetation, often in mosaic forest-grassland landscapes. They prefer clear to slightly turbid water with emergent plants.

Ecology and biology: Bombina are carnivorous, feeding on small invertebrates. They breed in spring or early summer, laying gelatinous eggs in clusters attached to submerged vegetation. Tadpoles are omnivorous and develop in water, often requiring several weeks to months before metamorphosis. The bright ventral coloration together with toxin-secreting skin cells provides chemical defense; many predators learn to avoid them after an initial encounter.

Conservation: Habitat destruction, pollution, introduction of fish, and disease such as chytrid fungus threaten Bombina populations in some regions. Several species are of conservation concern and are protected under national laws and international agreements.

Representative species: Bombina bombina (European fire-bellied toad), Bombina variegata (yellow or variable fire-bellied toad), Bombina pachypus (Apennine fire-bellied toad), Bombina orientalis (Oriental fire-bellied toad).