Frogs
Frogs
Frogs (/frɒɡs/; from Old English frogga, "frog") are a diverse and largely carnivorous group of short-bodied, tailless amphibians composing the order Anura (from Ancient Greek an-, "without" + oura, "tail").
Etymology
The term "frog" is derived from Old English frogga. The exact etymology of the term is uncertain, but it is likely related to Proto-Germanic *fruguz ("frog").
Characteristics
Frogs are characterized by long hind legs, a short body, webbed digits, protruding eyes, and the absence of a tail. They are excellent jumpers and swimmers due to their powerful back legs and webbed feet.
Classification
Frogs belong to the order Anura, which is divided into three suborders: Archaeobatrachia, which includes four families of primitive frogs; Mesobatrachia, which includes five families of more evolutionary intermediate frogs; and Neobatrachia, by far the largest group, which contains the remaining families of modern frogs, including most common species.
Habitat and Distribution
Frogs are found worldwide, but they are most diverse in tropical regions. They inhabit a wide range of habitats, including forests, swamps, deserts, and subarctic regions.
Diet
Frogs are primarily carnivorous, feeding on invertebrates such as insects, spiders, and slugs. Some larger species may consume small mammals, fish, or other amphibians.
Reproduction
Frogs typically lay their eggs in water. The eggs hatch into aquatic larvae, called tadpoles, that have tails and internal gills.
Conservation
Many frog species are threatened by habitat loss, climate change, pollution, and disease. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect these important members of the ecosystem.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Frogs
- Wikipedia's article - Frogs
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