Anura is the scientific name for the order of amphibians that includes all frogs and toads. Members of Anura are recognized by their distinctive body plan, which lacks a tail in adulthood, and by their remarkable adaptations for jumping, swimming, and vocal communication.
- Includes all species of frogs and toads.
- Distinguished by the absence of a tail in adult form.
- Adapted for life both in water (as larvae) and on land (as adults).
- Powerful hind legs enable efficient locomotion by jumping.
- Vocal sacs in many species facilitate diverse and memorable calls.
Anura is the order that includes all frogs and toads.
Adult Anurans (frogs and toads) lack tails.
What are Anura?
'Anura' means 'without tail', highlighting the tailless adult form of these amphibians.
Anura means "without tail," a fitting name for this order since adult frogs and toads lose the tail that is present in their larval stage. Anurans undergo metamorphosis, beginning life as aquatic, gill-breathing larvae (tadpoles) that later transform into tailless, air-breathing adults.
- Anura means "without tail."
- Includes both frogs and toads.
- Undergo metamorphosis: from tail-bearing tadpoles to tailless adults.
- Most species have specialized skin, vocal cords, and reproductive strategies.
Anurans do not have a permanent tail as adults.
Anurans are known for their tailless adult form, strong hind legs, and metamorphic life cycle.
Examples of Frogs
Common frog examples include *Rana* species, tree frogs, and poison dart frogs.
True frogs are typically smooth-skinned, with long legs adapted for jumping and swimming. They belong to the family Ranidae and display a wide range of colors and habitats.
- Most have smooth, moist skin.
- Belong primarily to the family Ranidae.
- Known for powerful jumping and efficient swimming.
- Vocalize extensively, especially during mating seasons.
Most true frogs are classified under Ranidae.
Frog skin is typically moist and permeable, aiding in respiration.
Frogs leap, croak, and have aquatic tadpoles, but do not fly or generally burrow as adults.
Examples of Toads
Toads have warty, dry skin, belong to Bufonidae, and their larvae develop as tadpoles.
Toads generally have dry, bumpy skin and are more terrestrial than frogs. They belong mainly to the family Bufonidae and produce potent skin toxins as a defense.
- Possess dry, warty skin.
- Family: Bufonidae (true toads).
- More terrestrial and less dependent on water than most frogs.
- Secrete toxins from skin glands for protection.
Most toads are classified under the family Bufonidae.
Toad and frog larvae are both aquatic tadpoles.
Toads retain moisture well, can burrow, and have chemical defenses.
Conclusion
Anura, the order that includes frogs and toads, represents a fascinating group of amphibians known for their tailless adult forms and remarkable life cycles.
- Anurans are distinguished by their tail-less adults, powerful hind legs, and complex metamorphosis.
- Frogs typically have smooth, moist skin and are efficient jumpers, while toads have warty, dry skin and are more terrestrial.
- Both frogs and toads play vital roles in ecosystems, serving as indicators of environmental health and controlling insect populations.
Anuran larvae (tadpoles) have tails and are aquatic, while adults lose the tail and are adapted for terrestrial life.