The tongues of frogs, instead of pointing outwards, are directed towards
the throat. This species differs from the rest of its tribe, by having
its tongue free and pointing forwards. Its rounded head sinks
completely into the body, the muzzle being abruptly truncated, so as to
form a circular disc in front. So extremely small is the gape, that it
would not be supposed, if separated from the body, to have belonged to a
frog. On each side of the neck there is a gland, deeply sunk, and
almost concealed by the skin.
The body of this curious creature is extremely short and thick, and its
feet are half webbed. At the end of each of the hinder feet is a flat,
oval, horny spur--its only means of offence and defence, as it possesses
no teeth in its head.
It is of a slaty-grey colour, with yellow spots on the sides and back.
Occasionally the latter unite, so as to form a jagged line along the
back.