Cane Toad Research Paper

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Cane toads, an amphibian species that was introduced from Central and South America to Australia in 1935, was expected to protect farmers’ crop and by eating harmful insects. However, not only did they multiply rapidly, but they also threaten small native animals that are not pests. The writer believe building national fence, asking for volunteers, and producing a specific virus can control the population. Unfortunately, the lecturer does not agree with the paper and believe the result may be even more devastating. According to the paper, the writer believes building national fence can reduce the population of cane toad. This method has been used before to prevent the spread of rabbits. Thus, building a fence could prevent toads from moving into parts of Australia where they have not yet colonized. Nevertheless, the lecturer disagrees and believes toad eggs are found in rivers and streams. Since the rivers will flow from one side to the other, water can carry the young toads to the other side. The second solution that is recommended by the writer is to capture and destroy the toads by volunteers. The reason is that toads are can easily be caught by simple traps and hands, especially young cane toad eggs which are restricted to water. Nonetheless, the lectures challenges his …show more content…

Although they admit this specific virus may infect a great deal of reptile and amphibian species, it will only harm the cane toads. Yet, the lecturer rejects his claim because he reckons virus can cause negative consequences for cane toad in their original habitat, the central America. Australian and American amphibians are often transported to another continent, meaning the infected cane toad which are reached to America will attack the native cane toad and affect the population. Since cane toads are American native species, a vital part of the ecosystem, disease is not recommended for reducing the

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