Detailed Summary
Frogs are amphibians belonging to the phylum Chordata, specifically classified under class Amphibia. The most common frog species in India is Rana tigrina. They are ectothermic (cold-blooded), meaning their body temperature varies with their environment. Frogs can camouflage themselves with changing colors to evade predators, using mimicry for protection.
Morphologically, a frog's body is divided into a head and trunk; they lack a neck and tail. Their dorsal side is typically olive green, while the ventral side is pale yellow. The skin is smooth and moist, featuring mucus that facilitates cutaneous respiration, allowing frogs to absorb water through the skin rather than drinking.
Anatomically, frogs have a complex body structure housing various systems, including digestive, circulatory, respiratory, nervous, excretory, and reproductive systems. Their digestive system consists of a shortened alimentary canal because they are carnivorous, beginning from the mouth and leading to the cloaca. Frogs use different respiratory methods: they rely on cutaneous respiration in water and pulmonary respiration on land.
Their highly developed circulatory system is closed, with a three-chambered heart and a renal portal system. Frogs possess a well-adapted nervous system, with distinct cranial nerves and a central nervous system. The reproductive system showcases distinct sexual dimorphism; males have vocal sacs for sound production, while females possess ovaries that can produce thousands of eggs.
Overall, frogs play vital ecological roles, serving as both predator and prey in various ecosystems.