Anura – Frogs
Toads are kind of frogs, with shorter legs (to crawl & hop rather than leap) and dry skin (and not moist like frogs)
The word amphibian is almost synonymous with frogs and toads.
This largest order of amphibians is instantly recognizable with their short, rigid bodies and distinct lack of a tail. They have large eyes and a keen sense of smell that they use to catch their prey by flicking out their long, sticky tongues. Females are typically larger than males. Their skin varies greatly; some frogs have skin so thin that you can view their internal organs, while the skin of some toads has been substituted for leather!
They also exhibit a wide range of sizes, from the minuscule Brazilian gold frog to the gigantic Goliath frog. Some frogs possess transparent lower eyelids, allowing them to see underwater while staying protected. Notably, certain species can change their skin color based on temperature, light, and mood, adding to their unique charm.
Many frogs are nocturnal and equipped with excellent night vision. Some species, like the wood frog, even tolerate freezing temperatures by entering a state of suspended animation.
Beyond biology, frogs are culturally significant symbols, representing transformation, renewal, rain, and fertility in various societies. They embody personal growth, resilience, and the cyclical nature of life due to their unique life cycle. Additionally, they are associated with the life-giving power of rain and are believed to bring fertility and abundance to those seeking it, making them multifaceted icons in human culture.
Frogs and toads can be found in various habitats close to lakes, streams, and other wet areas. In this order, the largest risks to species are habitat loss and fungi diseases.
Did you know?
- Incredible jumpers! Sometimes 10 times their body length.
- Frogs have ears! Just behind their eyes.
- Frogs cannot live in salt water.
- Mostly unchanged since evolved over 265 mya.
- They ‘drink’ through the skin.
- A group of frogs is called an army.
- March 20th is World Frog Day, created in 2009 to raise awareness.
Families in this order
Unlike your typical frog, these New World frogs don’t have a tadpole stage!
These small plump frogs with triangular-shaped body and a pointed snout are geographically widespread
Also known as “moss frogs” or “bush frogs”, some members of this family are “flying frogs” or “gliding frogs”
Despite they name, this family include a diversity of frog species, many of which are terrestrial or semiaquatic
Only family of anurans in which all members are known as toads: rough skinned, squat-bodied & short-legged
Sister group to the leaf frogs; considered by some as a group them within family Hylidae
Native to tropical Central & South America; bright and colorful as they may be, these infamous frogs deserve your respect!
Long-fingered frogs, Night frogs, Egg frogs, a Hairy frog, Forest treefrogs and what not!
Widest distributed of any amphibian, these “classic” frogs have a typical smooth skin, webbed feet & large, powerful legs
Male frogs of this family carry a string of fertilized eggs on their backs, making them commonly known as “midwife frogs”
Sub-Saharan frog giants that are commonly known as ‘slippery frogs’
Fancy transparency? Bones, internal organs & a beating heart can be seen through the translucent skin!
Native to Central and South America, this family is sister group of poison dart frogs, but are not as toxic
True to their name, members in this family resemble leaves in both color and shape
Toads native to Eurasia, characterized with flattened bodies. Some species are highly toxic!
Diggin into sandy soil, members of this family spend much of their life in the ground
