What is a notable feature of the cane toad?

Study for the Science Olympiad Potions and Poisons Test. Explore engaging questions and comprehensive explanations tailored to enhance your understanding. Prepare confidently for the competition!

The notable feature of the cane toad is its poison glands. Cane toads possess parotoid glands located behind their eyes, which produce a potent toxin known as bufotenin, among other compounds. This toxin serves as a defense mechanism against predators, making the toad unpalatable and potentially harmful if ingested. The presence of these poison glands is a significant characteristic that distinguishes the cane toad from many other amphibians.

In contrast, while some amphibians may exhibit bright colors as warnings of toxicity, not all do; thus, being brightly colored is not a definitive feature of the cane toad. Although cane toads can be found in various water sources, they are primarily terrestrial and are not classified as aquatic, which sets them apart from species that spend most of their lives in water. Lastly, cane toads are not migratory in the way some species are; they tend to remain in a relatively stable area where they can find food and suitable breeding sites. Therefore, the presence of poison glands stands out as the most distinctive and important feature of the cane toad.

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