Frog

A frog is any member of the amphibian order Anura, a group of tailless vertebrates found worldwide except Antarctica.

A frog is a tailless amphibian in the order Anura. Frogs are found worldwide except Antarctica and are known for their leaping ability and moist skin.

What it is

Frogs are amphibians belonging to the order Anura. The term is often used broadly for smooth-skinned, leaping anurans, though in strict taxonomy it may refer more narrowly to true frogs in the family Ranidae. The informal distinction between frogs and toads is not taxonomic.

Why it matters

Frogs are important indicators of ecosystem health, especially in wetlands and freshwater habitats. In Canada, native frog species help monitor environmental changes. Their presence often signals a balanced ecosystem, while declines can warn of pollution or habitat loss.

Key details

Adult frogs lack tails, have long hind legs for jumping, protruding eyes, and moist skin. They begin life as aquatic eggs and tadpoles before metamorphosis. Frogs inhabit freshwater, forests, trees, and underground burrows, with the greatest diversity in tropical regions.