Amphibia
Amphibia
Amphibia (pronunciation: am-fib-ee-uh) is a class of cold-blooded vertebrates that includes frogs, toads, newts, and salamanders. They are characterized by their ability to live both in water and on land.
Etymology
The term "Amphibia" comes from the Greek word "amphibios", which means "living a double life". This refers to the amphibian's unique ability to thrive in both aquatic and terrestrial environments.
Characteristics
Amphibians are ectothermic, meaning their body temperature is regulated by the external environment. They have a three-chambered heart and lay eggs that lack a hard shell. Most amphibians undergo a process of metamorphosis, transforming from a water-breathing larva or tadpole to an adult that can breathe air.
Classification
Amphibians are divided into three orders:
- Anura: This order includes frogs and toads. They are characterized by their long hind legs and absence of a tail.
- Caudata: This order includes salamanders and newts. They are characterized by their long bodies and tails.
- Gymnophiona: This order includes caecilians, which are legless, burrowing amphibians.
Related Terms
- Metamorphosis: The process by which an amphibian transforms from a larval stage to an adult.
- Ectothermic: Refers to animals whose body temperature is regulated by the external environment.
- Anura: The order of amphibians that includes frogs and toads.
- Caudata: The order of amphibians that includes salamanders and newts.
- Gymnophiona: The order of amphibians that includes caecilians.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Amphibia
- Wikipedia's article - Amphibia
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