Data from: Macroevolutionary patterns and drivers of skull shape in the global radiation of true toads

True toads (Bufonidae) are a highly diverse group of amphibians that have
dispersed across the globe. This makes them well-suited to exploring
deep-time patterns of phenotypic evolution on a global scale. However,
most true toads (former genus Bufo) have long been considered
morphologically conserved and the adaptive nature of their radiation has
previously yielded mixed results. We investigated the macroevolutionary
patterns of the skull in true toads using micro-computed tomography data,
geometric morphometrics, and comparative methods, and assessed the
relationship between skull shape and geographical range, as well as
phylogeny, body size, and habitat, which have previously been suggested as
important drivers of amphibian cranial evolution. Body size and
geographical range are identified as key factors influencing skull shape
in true toads. The assumption that true toads formerly in the genus Bufo
have highly conserved skulls is challenged by the fact that different
groups occupy distinct morphospace domains. Early in the evolution of
large true toads, prior to their global expansion, high morphological
change and relatively high evolutionary rates resulted in increased
disparity, which are signs of adaptive radiation.