Saudi Researchers Document Rare 'Reverse Cannibalism' in Arabian Toads
The unusual behaviour was observed during field research at the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Reserve.
Researchers at the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Reserve Development Authority have documented a rare case of "reverse cannibalism" among Arabian toads, observing smaller tadpoles attacking a larger, more developed individual during a field survey.
According to the authority, the behaviour reverses the pattern typically seen in amphibians, where larger or more developed individuals prey on smaller ones. The findings were published in the journal Herpetology Notes and are believed to represent the first documented case of the behaviour being observed in a natural environment.
The observation was recorded in situ within the reserve, with researchers using the term "reverse cannibalism" to describe instances in which smaller or less developed individuals attack a larger member of the same species. The authority said the finding could contribute to a better understanding of feeding behaviour and interactions within amphibian populations.
Native to the Arabian Peninsula, the Arabian toad inhabits mountainous and semi-arid regions where permanent or seasonal water sources are available. While the species has been studied under laboratory conditions, detailed observations in the wild remain relatively limited.
The authority said the discovery forms part of its broader wildlife monitoring programme across the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Reserve, which spans more than 130,000 square kilometres.
