Frogs and toads
The name Anura means without (an) tail (ura). Anura do have a tail in the larval stage, but this gets lost during metamorphosis.
Most frogs and toads live on land but for their reproduction they are dependent on water. Usually the eggs of frogs and toads are deposited in very large numbers. Frogs lay their eggs in clumps, toads usually in strings. The larvae of frogs and toads, called tadpoles, have gills initially, these get lost in metamorphosis. After metamorphosis they usually leave the water.
Frogs and toads occurring in the British Isles:
Frogs:
- Common toad, Bufo bufo
- Natterjack Toad, Epidalea calamita
- Yellow-bellied toad, Bombina variegata
- Midwife Toad, Alytes obstetricans
- Clawed Toad, Xenopus laevis
Toads:
- Common Frog, Rana temporaria
- Agile Frog, Rana dalmatina
- Pool Frog, Pelophylax lessonae
- Marsh Frog, Pelophylax ridibundus
- Edible Frog, Pelophylax esculentus
- American Bullfrog, Lithobates catesbeianus
- European Tree Frog, Hyla arborea