Information about our favorite little friends… By Brandon Mathis Frogs Information about our favorite little friends… By Brandon Mathis

What are frogs? Intermediate form between fish and reptiles Amphibians Most common: frogs, toads, and salamanders Also linked with birds and mammals

How did they come about? Amphibian Greek word “amphi” meaning “both” “Bios” meaning “life” Describes cold-blooded animals with a backbone Both in and out of water

More about AMPHIBIANS! Approximately 3140 species currently Divided into 6 orders Anura, Salientia, Urodela, Caudata, Apoda, and Gymnophiona. Most all frogs fall under the order “Anura”. Toads are rough to the touch, Frogs are smooth and rubbery

Where? Found as far north as northwestern swamplands of Canada. Everywhere expect Antarctica, New Zealand, and Greenland.

Characteristics Relatively small Most have 4 limbs of some sort Flat, wide skulls Molt their protective, water absorbing skin Sensory organs are fit per the species to the area in which they live

Life Cycle Begin as tadpoles or larvae Go though metamorphosis Develops lungs and the ability to breathe Populations growth is controlled by predators and death rates

What they do Most live near a source of water Can hibernate/stay in a state of inactivity for months on end Possible communication skillz Can read the stars and find their way “home”

Frog “parts”

Bibliography http://www.lookd.com/frogs/index.html http://www.thelilypad.org/info/geninfo.php