Biology / Unit 10 Bio 2295 short lesson, about 20 seconds
Amphibian Traits: Dual Life and Permeable Skin
Captions available
The idea
Most amphibians live a dual life, developing as aquatic larvae before metamorphosing into a terrestrial adult, relying on moist skin for gas exchange.
In practice
A frog tadpole breathes through gills in water, then metamorphoses into an air-breathing adult that still absorbs oxygen through skin.
Where people slip
Permeable skin that aids gas exchange also leaves amphibians vulnerable to water-borne pollutants and dehydration outside moist habitats.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
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