Duttaphrynus

Duttaphrynus is a genus of true toads in the family Bufonidae. It comprises multiple species that are distributed mainly across the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and parts of the Middle East. The genus was established to group Asian toads formerly placed in Bufo; molecular studies support recognizing these lineages as distinct.

Members of Duttaphrynus are typically medium to large toads with rough, warty skin and well-developed parotoid glands behind the eyes, which secrete toxins as a defense. Coloration and patterning vary by species and habitat.

Distribution and habitat vary, but most species are terrestrial and nocturnal. They occupy a range of environments, from forests and scrub to agricultural land, often in proximity to water bodies necessary for breeding.

Life history: reproduction generally occurs in the rainy season, with eggs laid in strings in ponds or slow streams; tadpoles develop in water before metamorphosing into terrestrial juveniles. Adults feed on invertebrates and occasionally small vertebrates.

Conservation status varies among species. Habitat loss, pollution, and collection for trade threaten some members of the genus, while others are relatively widespread and listed as least concern. Ongoing taxonomic revision and field surveys continue to refine the genus.