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Glite Dictionary
Scaphiopus

Scaphiopus

9.9
A North American toad with back feet like a small spade for digging
  • noun
  • /ˈskæfɪəpəs/
  • Specialized
translation icon : Scaphiopus
  • The Scaphiopus uses its spade-shaped feet to dig burrows in the sandy soil.

Examples

  • Scientists studied the breeding behavior of Scaphiopus in temporary desert pools.

  • The Scaphiopus species are well adapted to arid environments with sandy soils.

  • A Scaphiopus can remain buried underground for months, emerging after heavy rains.

  • The Scaphiopus is known for its unique spade-shaped feet.

  • Have you ever seen a Scaphiopus in the wild?

  • During the summer, a Scaphiopus can often be seen emerging at night after rain.

  • Researchers observed the hunting techniques of the Scaphiopus as it forages for insects.

Synonyms

genus Scaphiopus
vsScaphiopus
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of North American toads with vertical pupils and spade-like feet for digging

focuses instead on spade shaped hind feet used for digging

Compounds

genus Scaphiopus
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of North American toads with vertical pupils and spade-like feet for digging

Scaphiopus multiplicatus
  • Specialized
9.9

A toad with spade-shaped feet that digs and lives underground in dry parts of the southwestern United States

Scaphiopus bombifrons
  • Specialized
9.9

A small toad that lives in dry plains, digs holes, and breeds in temporary pools

Surface Forms

Scaphiopus singular
Scaphiopi plural

Etymology

The word Scaphiopus comes from Greek parts scaphi- meaning 'spade' or 'shovel' and -pus from pous meaning 'foot'. That is why these toads are called spadefoots: they have spade-shaped back feet for digging.