12. p. 259Lissamphibians
- F. Harvey Pough, F. Harvey PoughProfessor Emeritus, Rochester Institute of Technology
- William E. Bemis, William E. BemisProfessor of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology and Faculty Curator of Ichthyology, Cornell University
- Betty McguireBetty McguireSenior Lecturer, Cornell University
- , and Christine M. JanisChristine M. JanisProfessor Emerita of Biology, Brown University, USA, Honorary Professor of Earth Sciences, University of Bristol, UK
Abstract
This chapter focuses on lissamphibians. It details the life histories of lissamphibians, which include egg hatching, parental care, vocalization, and fertilization. The distinct lineages of extant animals generally referred to as amphibians range between Gymnophiona (caecilians), Caudata (salamanders), and Anura (frogs). Since lissamphibians are the only tetrapods that metamorphose, they play a critical role in the flow of matter and energy in ecosystems. The chapter shows that despite their importance in the ecosystem, some lissamphibians developed toxins or venoms. It also considers the worldwide crisis of rapidly declining lissamphibian populations, and notes how the disappearance of anurans caused a domino effect of changes in energy and nutrient flow in aquatic and terrestrial communities.
