Bufonidae

True toads are members of the family Bufonidae, part of the order Anura (frogs and toads). This family includes over 35 genera, with Bufo being the most well-known. True toads are found on every continent except Australia and Antarctica and can thrive in diverse environments, from arid regions to rainforests.

They are toothless, usually warty, and have parotoid glands behind their heads that produce an alkaloid poison for defense. The potency of this poison varies among species, with some, like the cane toad (Rhinella marina), being particularly toxic. Certain species, like the Colorado River toad (Incilius alvarius), are noted for their psychoactive properties.

In this family, males or females may have a Bidder’s organ, which can develop into an ovary under certain conditions. Teeth have independently disappeared in frogs over 20 times, but all Bufonidae members are naturally toothless. Another toothless anuran family is Microhylidae.