This paper investigates the toxicity of cadmium (Cd) on young stages of the common Asian toad Duttaphrynus melanostictus (Schneider 1799). Signs of acute toxicity were evident in tadpoles repeatedly exposed to five concentrations ranging from 0.002 to 2 mg L(-1)of Cd which included environmentally relevant levels. Mortality at concentrations of 0.02 mg L(-1) and above was enhanced from 2 % at 0.02 mg L(-1) to 100 % at 1 mg L(-1), in a dose-dependent manner. Significant growth impairment was evident at 0.20 mg L(-1) with the larvae being markedly smaller. Delayed metamorphosis and retarded swimming were also observed. Therefore levels of Cd recorded in some freshwater bodies in Sri Lanka (e.g. 0.2 mg L(-1)) may be detrimental to the young stages of D. melanostictus.