The toad’s long sticky tongue is an adaptation for

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks what function a toad's long, sticky tongue serves. This is about adaptation, meaning a structural feature that helps an organism survive in its environment.

Step 2: Explain the concept An adaptation is a feature of an organism that suits it to its mode of life. In toads and frogs (amphibians), the tongue is attached at the front of the mouth and folded back. It can be flicked out very quickly, and its sticky surface makes prey stick to it.

Step 3: Evaluate the options

• A. Catching insects: Correct. The toad flicks out its tongue, the insect sticks to it, and the tongue is pulled back into the mouth to swallow the prey.
• B. Conserving water: Toads do this through behaviours like burrowing and moist skin management, not through the tongue.
• C. Escaping from predators: This is done by the strong hind legs for jumping, and by camouflage or poison glands.
• D. Regulating body temperature: Toads are ectotherms (cold-blooded) and regulate temperature by behaviour, such as moving into shade or water, not with the tongue.
• E. Securing mates: This is done by croaking, using the vocal sac, not the tongue.

Step 4: Answer The long, sticky tongue is an adaptation for catching insects (A).

Exam tip: Match each feature with its function in amphibians:

• Sticky tongue → feeding
• Strong hind legs → jumping/escape
• Webbed feet → swimming
• Moist skin → gaseous exchange
• Vocal sac → attracting mates