Grenouille

Grenouille is the French word for "frog." Frogs are amphibians belonging to the order Anura. They are known for their jumping abilities, croaking sounds, bulging eyes, and slimy skin. Frogs are found on every continent except Antarctica and are known for their diverse range of species and habitats.

Biology

Frogs have a unique life cycle that includes a metamorphosis from a tadpole to an adult frog. Tadpoles are aquatic and have gills, while adult frogs are typically semi-aquatic and have lungs. Frogs are known for their permeable skin, which allows them to absorb water and oxygen directly from their environment. This makes them highly sensitive to environmental changes and pollutants.

Anatomy

Frogs have a number of distinctive anatomical features:

• Skin: Frogs have moist, permeable skin that can absorb water and oxygen.
• Legs: Frogs have powerful hind legs adapted for jumping and swimming.
• Eyes: Frogs have large, bulging eyes that provide a wide field of vision.
• Ears: Frogs have a tympanum, a membrane that functions as an external ear.

Habitat

Frogs are found in a variety of habitats, including:

• Rainforests
• Swamps
• Ponds
• Streams
• Deserts (some species have adapted to arid environments)

Diet

Frogs are generally carnivorous, feeding on insects, worms, and other small invertebrates. Some larger species may also eat small vertebrates, including other frogs.

Reproduction

Frogs typically reproduce in water. Males call to attract females, and fertilization is usually external. The female lays eggs in water, which hatch into tadpoles. The tadpoles undergo metamorphosis, developing legs and lungs as they transition into adult frogs.

Cultural Significance

Frogs have been featured in various cultures and mythologies around the world. In some cultures, they are seen as symbols of fertility and transformation. In others, they are associated with rain and water.

Conservation

Many frog species are threatened by habitat loss, pollution, climate change, and diseases such as chytridiomycosis. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these important amphibians.

Related Pages

• Amphibian
• Tadpole
• Metamorphosis
• Rainforest
• Swamp
• Pond
• Stream
• Desert
• Carnivorous
• Chytridiomycosis