The Asian common toad, Duttaphrynus melanostictus, was accidentally brought to eastern Madagascar in 2010 on a ship. Fig. 9.1 displays an Asian common toad. The Asian common toad is now classed as an invasive alien species because:
- it reproduces quickly in the warm, wet conditions of eastern Madagascar
- it can move up to $2.5\,\text{km}$ per year
- its skin contains poison, which is highly toxic to humans and predators.
(a)[4]
Suggest ways in which the Asian common toad may influence the ecosystem of eastern Madagascar.
(b)[4]
Zoos collaborate with local groups across the world to help conserve endangered species. One example is the use of assisted reproduction, such as IVF, with endangered mammals such as the eastern black rhino. Outline the process of IVF.
Worked solution & mark scheme
This 8-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: “few or no predators” …