Order Batrachia, also known as the batrachians or amphibians, refers to a diverse and ancient group of cold-blooded vertebrates that typically undergo metamorphosis. They belong to the class Amphibia, which also includes caecilians and salamanders. The order Batrachia encompasses three main groups: frogs, toads, and tailed amphibians.
Frogs, recognized by their long hind legs specialized for jumping and their smooth and moist skin, are the most familiar members of this order. They have a short and stout body, with a distinct head and a pair of bulging eyes. Toads are similar to frogs anatomically, but are characterized by their drier and bumpier skin. They have shorter legs and are generally terrestrial, although some species are semi-aquatic. Tailed amphibians, such as newts and salamanders, possess a tail during their adult stage, which they often retain throughout their lives.
Members of the order Batrachia are mostly found in moist or aquatic environments, although some species have adapted to more arid conditions. They undergo a complex life cycle, starting as aquatic larvae with gills and progressing into terrestrial adults with lungs. Amphibians are ectothermic animals that rely on external sources to regulate their body temperature. They have a wide range of diets, feeding on a variety of invertebrates, including insects, worms, and small crustaceans.
While amphibians play important roles in ecosystems as both predator and prey, many species are facing environmental challenges, including habitat loss, pollution, and climate change, leading to declining populations worldwide. Their sensitivity to changes in their environment makes them crucial indicators of ecosystem health.
