found among the glandular cells in mucous layer of the esophagus. In addition, the stomach of Rhinella icterica has four distinct layers that shows the same pattern as the esophagus. these specialized cells are called the oxynticopeptic cells and are responsible for the production of hydrochloric acid and pepsinogen Its stomach is made up of a simple epithelium of columnar mucous cells that is supported by well vascularized loose connective tissue. In mammals, the gastric surface is lined by mucous that is secreted by mucous cells. This is also observed in Rhinella icterica. The mucous cells in this toad species also produces neutral glycoproteins that are rich in galactose, galactosamine, and glucosamine residues. This is similar to other toad species whose mucous layer that serves to protect the surface of the stomach and is formed by neutral glycoconjugates. Habitat and conservation Rhinella icterica is found in the Atlantic Forest, spanning southeastern and southern Brail, eastern Paraguay, and in the Misiones and Corrientes provinces of Argentina. When it is time for them to reproduce, thus species is found mainly in streams or ponds in large congregations. They get their food from hanging matter and submerged plants. This common toad occurs in a large range of habitats, from forests to open habitats such as Cerrado savanna, and including disturbed habitats. Breeding takes place from August to January in permanent and temporary ponds and streams. It is an adaptable species that also occurs in many protected areas, and is not considered threatened. Initially, these toads remained in the forested and less urbanized areas of Brazil. However due to more recent deforestation and the building of new roads, there has been a decrease in the ability for toads to access water which is necessary for their breeding. Because of this, the population of Rhinella icterica is gradually decreasing, causing an increase in the number of scorpions found in this area. References ictericus Amphibians of Argentina Amphibians of Brazil Amphibians of Paraguay Amphibians described in 1824 Taxa named by Johann Baptist von Spix Taxonomy articles created by Polbot