What is metamorphosis in amphibians?
Quick Answer
Metamorphosis is the dramatic body change some amphibians go through, such as a tadpole becoming an adult frog.
The Full Story
Metamorphosis is a developmental transformation in which an amphibian changes form, habitat and often diet. In frogs, the process usually begins with an aquatic tadpole that has gills, a tail and no legs, then progresses to a juvenile with legs, lungs and a shrinking tail. Hormones, especially thyroid hormones, regulate much of this transition. Not all amphibians have the same life cycle: salamanders and caecilians can show different patterns, and some species retain juvenile traits into adulthood in a condition called paedomorphosis.
Key Facts
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"How a tadpole turns into a frog without stopping to become something else"
Was this answer helpful?
Tap a reaction — it helps us pick what to cover next.