What are amphibians?

Amphibians are vertebrates including frogs, salamanders and limbless caecilians.

Life cycles

Many frogs lay eggs in water; tadpole larvae undergo metamorphosis into adults. Yet cycles vary: some species develop directly and some care for young. Their permeable skin makes water balance important, and lungs and skin can both contribute to breathing in some groups. The name does not mean that every species spends equal time on land and in water. Humid microhabitats matter for many.

Environmental pressures

Drying habitats, pollution, invasive species and disease can severely affect some populations. Connections between breeding sites and terrestrial shelter need protection. Seeing one frog does not prove that water is entirely clean; systematic monitoring is needed. Calling all amphibians harmful or beneficial without identifying species is unreliable.