ünke

Unke refers to a group of small, stout amphibians belonging to the genus Bombina, which is part of the family Bombinatoridae. These frogs are native to Europe and parts of Asia. They are characterized by their brightly colored undersides, which serve as a warning to potential predators. This striking coloration often features reds, oranges, or yellows against a dark background.

When threatened, unke display a defensive posture known as the "unke reflex" or "toad reflex." They arch their backs, lift their limbs, and expose their brightly colored ventral side. This behavior is intended to signal their toxicity, as their skin secretes a poisonous substance that can irritate or deter predators. Despite this defense, unke are generally considered harmless to humans, although direct contact with their skin secretions can cause minor skin irritation in some individuals.

Unke typically inhabit slow-moving or stagnant bodies of water, such as ponds, ditches, and marshes. They are often found near the water's edge and spend a considerable amount of time in or around the water. Their diet consists mainly of small invertebrates, including insects, worms, and other small aquatic creatures. Their conservation status varies across different species within the genus, with some facing threats from habitat loss and pollution.