The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 7000
Frogs and toads, collectively known as anurans, are the most diverse group of amphibians. They inhabit a wide range of environments, but all depend on freshwater for reproduction. Eggs are laid in water, where tadpoles hatch and develop gills before transforming into air-breathing adults with powerful hind legs.
Frogs are typically smooth-skinned and agile jumpers, while toads tend to have drier, warty skin and a more terrestrial lifestyle. Many species are excellent swimmers and divers, using strong legs to escape predators and hunt insects underwater. As both predators and prey, frogs and toads play a crucial role in freshwater ecosystems and are important indicators of environmental change.