[3][4] Unlike most species of Bufotes but similar to its close relative B. luristanicus, it has no visible tympanum (either absent or tiny and covered by the skin),[4][5] hence the common name "earless toad".

[4] Two subspecies are recognized,[2] but their separation is questionable (annulatus was described based on features that often are individually variable in toads) and require further study.

[4][5] Common name ring-spotted earless toad can be used to specifically refer to Bufotes surdus annulatus.

[2] Bufotes surdus inhabits oases and pools in irrigated areas and their surroundings at elevations of 0–2,250 m (0–7,382 ft) above sea level.

Breeding takes place during the monsoons when males gather in temporal pools.