Toxic Toad Nightmare

The journal Nature reports that Australia is facing an "ecological nightmare" resulting from the spread of toxic toads.

The toxic cane toad Bufo marinus was deliberately introduced in the early 20th century in order to control cane beetles. As usual, such meddling with the natural eco-system has caused problems.

The poisonous toads - which can weigh as much as 2kg - are spreading throughout Australia destroying native life. Everything from snakes up to crocodiles is vulnerable.

To make matters worse, the toxic toads appear to be evolving. Researchers found that they now have much longer legs than their ancestors. Today's toxic toads can cover 55km a year which means they are spreading rapidly and are pretty much out of control.


Bart Simpson was not available for comment.