Amphibians are a diverse group of ectothermic vertebrates belonging to the class Amphibia, which means "double life." They are adapted for life in both water and on land, and their diversity spans several distinct groups with unique characteristics.
- Major Groups: Frogs and toads (Anura), salamanders and newts (Caudata/Urodela), and caecilians (Gymnophiona).
- Dual Life: Most amphibians undergo metamorphosis, starting as aquatic larvae with gills and transforming into air-breathing adults.
- Unique Skin: Their skin is moist, glandular, and often involved in respiration, making them sensitive to environmental changes.
- Ecological Roles: Amphibians serve as both predators and prey, helping to control insect populations and serving as bioindicators of ecosystem health.
The major groups of amphibians are Anura (frogs and toads), Caudata or Urodela (salamanders and newts), and Gymnophiona (caecilians).
'Amphibia' means 'double life,' referring to their aquatic larval and terrestrial adult stages.
Amphibians are characterized by moist, glandular skin, metamorphosis, and ectothermy.