Species Complex: The crested forest toad represents a species complex where one species actually represents several previously unidentified species. Genetic testing has discovered several species such as the sharp-nosed toad which can be difficult to differentiate without DNA testing due to the variability of both species. The crested forest toad, as well as those identified from the complex highly dimorphic where individuals can range in colour from a drab brown to red and orange with some even having bright blue spots. This variability aids in camouflage, blending in with the fallen leaves on the forest floor. Many will even have a stripe down their back which mimics the stem of a leaf while the spots resemble fungal growth, common on in the damp Amazon rainforest.
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