Ankle Biter

A species of toad found in the Demon Realm.

Basic Information

Anatomy

A six-legged amphibian with flippers on their back legs. They have small, sharp teeth in front of their wide mouth and long, sticky tongues for catching prey. While their entire body is covered in bumps, the area on their face may also feature small horns or tines.

Biological Traits

Females are typically larger than males, and make up roughly 75% of the population.

Genetics and Reproduction

Biters reproduce via egg-laying, usually in a large bunch at the edges of shallow bodies of water.

Growth Rate & Stages

Biters go through the cycle of eggs, tadpoles, toadlets, and toads. Eggs hatch after 3-4 weeks, and tadpoles develop into adult toads over the course of 1-2 years.

Ecology and Habitats

Biters typically live in moist regions, particularly in muddy conditions. As they spend a good deal of time on land, they typically do not inhabit large bodies of water.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Biter are primarily insectivores, but may eat other amphibians, reptiles, or even small mammals.

Biological Cycle

During the cool dry season, biters bury themselves in the ground and enter hibernation to avoid damage from the lack of humidity during this time.

Behaviour

Biters are aggressive and territorial, often striking out at much larger prey - this behavior being the cause of their name.

Additional Information

Social Structure

Biters are largely solitary, but during the breeding period large numbers gather in seasonal brood ponds. The larger females compete to draw the attention of the smaller and less populous males.

Uses, Products & Exploitation

Often used as food in Great Plains Cuisine. Biter caviar is considered a delicacy in many portions of the realm, and harvested by herdspeople of the Plains to trade for more expensive goods when the herds migrate near Black Paw Lake in the cool dry season.

Lifespan

30 years

Average Height

1-2ft

Average Length

1.5-3ft

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Biters are usually green, brown, or dark red in color to match their environment. Some may even be dark maroon or purplish.

Geographic Distribution