Cane Toads
Every continent in the world has got its own toad, except Australia! All that changed in 1935 when 101 Cane Toads arrived from Hawaii. The Cane Toad was introduced into Gordonvale Queensland 22kms south of Cairns in 1935 from Hawaii to combat the sugar cane beetle which was destroying the crops of the sugarcane industry. The manufactures gave up on the idea and a mere two years later they were all let go to fend for themselves. The cane toad adapted so well to the Australian environment and not before long, they migrated to most mainland states and began spreading their genes across Australia.
Currently most Australians recognize and identify the threat cane toads have on Australian wildlife. The cane toads can live for 40 years and grow to 25cm (10 inches) and weigh up to 2.5kgs (5 lbs). The Toad is presently considered a major pest and threat to native wildlife. All efforts are now being made for its eradication.
Chinese medicine manufacturers have been using the Toads for centuries in the treatment of Cardio Vascular Diseases and Cancer treatment. It is highly likely that the Cane Toad will one day be farmed in the Queensland in high volume for production of therapeutic medicines for mankind. A reversal - from test tube lifesaver. The skin of the Cane Toad is strong, tough and durable, often confused by the uninitiated crocodile leather. Due to recent usefulness of the animal it is bound to become just as exclusive.
