Primitive-looking amphibian which reaches a maximum length of 15cm. Its head is wide and flat, while its body looks quite robust. It has an unusual lumpy skin which is rough to the touch. This is normally a uniform brown colour, although it can have small marks or an orange dorsal line.
Examples include alpine populations of Bufo bufo and the Pyrenean brook salamander Euproctus asper in which many individuals survive for more than 20 years.