Invasive toads are close to but absent from Komodo National Park

A survey conducted between February and April 2018 found no evidence of the invasive Asian toad (Duttaphrynus melanostictus) within Komodo National Park, despite its abundance on nearby Sumbawa Island. The study used Visual Encounter Surveys across Rinca Island, Komodo Island (both part of the park), Flores Island (Labuan Bajo and Cumbi village), and Sape (Sumbawa Island). While two amphibian species were recorded in Komodo National Park and seven across all locations, the invasive toad was absent from Flores but thrived in Sape. This suggests that while the park remains free of this potential ecological threat, vigilance is needed due to its proximity on Sumbawa Island.

Kennedi, U. F., Kusrini, M. D., Ariefiandy, A., & Mardiastuti, A. (2020). Invasive toads are close to but absent from Komodo National Park. BIO Web of Conferences, 19, 17. https://doi.org/10.1051/bioconf/20201900017