AMPHIBIANS Meaning and
Definition
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Amphibians are a diverse group of vertebrate animals belonging to the class Amphibia. They are characterized by a unique life cycle that involves undergoing both aquatic and terrestrial phases during their development and adult life. Amphibians include well-known groups such as frogs, toads, salamanders, and newts.
One key characteristic of amphibians is their ability to breathe through their skin, which allows them to absorb oxygen even when underwater. Most amphibians also possess lungs to breathe air while on land. They typically lay eggs, which lack a protective shell and are usually laid in water. These eggs hatch into aquatic larvae, often referred to as tadpoles, which undergo a metamorphosis process to transform into their adult form.
Amphibians are found worldwide, although they are more abundant in moist and tropical habitats. They play crucial ecological roles, as both predators and prey, and contribute to maintaining the balance of various ecosystems. While they are adaptable to different environments, amphibians are highly sensitive to changes in environmental conditions, particularly pollution and habitat destruction.
Humans have a longstanding fascination with amphibians due to their unique features, and they are often subject to scientific research and conservation efforts. Amphibians, being indicator species, are studied to monitor the health of ecosystems and act as early warning signs for ecological disturbances. Despite their environmental importance, amphibians face numerous threats, including habitat loss, pollution, climate change, and diseases such as chytridiomycosis. These factors have led to declines in amphibian populations globally, making their conservation a priority for preserving biodiversity.
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Animals that can live either in water or on land-as the seal, walrus, frog, &c.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Etymology of AMPHIBIANS
The word "Amphibians" is derived from the Greek word "amphibios", which is a combination of "amphi", meaning "both" or "double", and "bios", meaning "life". The term "amphibios" was first used in the 18th century by Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus to describe a group of animals that live both in water and on land. The name reflects the dual nature of amphibians, as they undergo metamorphosis from aquatic larvae to terrestrial adults.
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