Surinam toads use fingertip lobules to catch prey in murky Amazon waters

Surinam toads (Pipa pipa) are among the most unusual amphibians in the Amazon basin, distinguished by their flattened bodies, tiny eyes and the fact that they carry their eggs on their backs. Researchers have observed that these frogs hunt in the turbid waters where vision is limited, using a rapid suction mechanism rather than relying on sight. When a small fish comes within reach, the toad extends its forelimbs, opens its jaws wide, and generates a powerful suction that pulls the prey into its tongue‑free mouth in a fraction of a second.

The toad’s hunting strategy is adapted to low‑visibility environments. The flat body allows it to stay close to the riverbed, while its small eyes provide minimal visual cues. Instead, the frog relies on tactile and chemical senses; the sudden opening of its jaws creates a pressure wave that draws in nearby prey. This method has been confirmed in laboratory experiments where the toad was able to capture fish in complete darkness, indicating that vision plays a negligible role in its predation.

These findings highlight how Surinam toads have evolved specialized feeding behaviors to thrive in the Amazon’s murky waters. Their unique combination of physical adaptations and rapid suction feeding demonstrates an effective strategy for capturing prey when light and sight are scarce.