Gallery: Absurd Creature of the Week: This Toad Grows a Spiky Mustache and Stabs Rivals for the Ladies

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    Photo: Cameron Hudson
    01

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    This is the world's most dangerous mustache. Well, I guess it's the world's *only* dangerous mustache.
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    Photo: Cameron Hudson
    02

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    Emei mustache toads grow spikes in the mating season to battle rivals underwater. Their skin will also loosen, allowing them to absorb more oxygen and to look hilariously like raisins.
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    Photo: Cameron Hudson
    03

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    Female mustache toads choose mates based on the quality of their dens and how much they look like Burt Reynolds in *Cannonball Run*.
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    Photo: Cameron Hudson
    04

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    Up to 90 percent of males are wounded in mustache battles. The other 10 percent probably have superpowers of healing, like Wolverine.
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    Photo: Cameron Hudson
    05

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    An Emei mustache toad tadpole. Like most frogs and toads, this species mates in the water. So, like, stay out of that water.
  • Image may contain Animal Wildlife Toad Amphibian Reptile and Lizard
    Photo: Cameron Hudson
    06

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    At the end of the breeding season, their spikes fall off. Until then, they're the most dapper amphibians ever, save for Kermit when he actually [puts an effort into things.](http://static2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20060407170908/muppet/images/1/1d/ProdcerKermit.JPG)