An assemblage of amphibians accompanied by photographs and information. Enclosed are instances of amphibian species from all three orders: Anura (frogs), Urodela (salamanders), and Apoda (caecilians).
Introduction to Amphibians
Amphibians, classified as members of the class Amphibia, are vertebrate creatures. Following their emergence from eggs, most amphibians undergo an aquatic larval phase before transforming into their adult, air-breathing forms.
The class Amphibia encompasses three orders: Anura (frogs), Urodela (salamanders), and Apoda (caecilians). (Toads are classified under the order Anura, while newts fall under Urodela.)
- For more information about amphibians, please refer to our comprehensive guide: Amphibians: The Ultimate Handbook.
- If terms like “class” and “order” confuse you, this webpage elucidates various animal groups: Animal Classification.
- To explore a collection of books on amphibians, visit our natural history bookstore: Amphibian Books.
There are approximately 8,000 known amphibian species, with nearly 90% of them belonging to the frog category.
African Bullfrog
African bullfrogs, Pyxicephalus adspersus, are sizeable frogs inhabiting southern Africa. They thrive in diverse habitats such as savannas, shrublands, marshes, and farmland. While African bullfrogs possess sharp teeth and may bite if threatened, they are also kept as exotic pets. Notably, their diet consists of various prey, including insects, small mammals, reptiles, and even other amphibians, including their own tadpoles.
African Common Toad/Square-Marked Toad
The African common toad, scientifically known as Amietophrynus regularis, resides in sub-Saharan Africa and adapts to different environments. This species, also called the square-marked toad, African toad, Egyptian toad, African bouncing toad, or Reuss’s toad, is a member of the Bufonidae family. It displays distinctive poison glands situated behind each eye, a characteristic shared by all members of this toad family. African common toads are often kept as pets and can live over 10 years with proper care.
Algerian Ribbed Newt
The Algerian ribbed newt, Pleurodeles nebulosus, stands out among the limited number of salamanders found in Africa. This amphibian primarily inhabits freshwater marshes and streams in Algeria and Tunisia, facing threats such as pollution and habitat loss.
American Bullfrog
North America is home to the American bullfrog, Lithobates catesbeianus, the largest frog species on the continent. Native to the eastern United States and Canada, it has also been introduced to other regions within the United States and Mexico. This olive-green frog exhibits sexual dimorphism, with males having yellow throats. During the mating season, male bullfrogs produce distinctive calls resembling the bellowing of a bull.
American Spadefoot Toads
The Scaphiopodidae family comprises the American spadefoot toads, divided into two genera: Scaphiopus (North American spadefoots) and Spea (western spadefoot toads). These toads derive their name from the spade-like projections on their feet, which enable them to dig backward into soft soil. Some species spend a significant portion of the year buried underground, emerging only when conditions are favorable.
Asian Common Toad
The Asian common toad, scientifically named Duttaphrynus melanostictus, is widespread in South and Southeast Asia. It thrives in various non-forest habitats and belongs to the Bufonidae family. With a body length of around 20 cm (8 in), this large toad is known for its brown coloration and is an active member of the true toad family.
Axolotl
The axolotl, Ambystoma mexicanum, is an aquatic salamander found in Mexico. Unlike many other amphibians, the axolotl retains its gills throughout its life and remains in the water as an adult. It possesses remarkable regenerative abilities, capable of regrowing lost limbs and other body parts. Unfortunately, due to habitat loss, this species is critically endangered in the wild.
Beddome’s Caecilian/Yellow-Striped Caecilian
Beddome’s caecilian, also known as the yellow-striped caecilian or Nilgherries caecilian, is an amphibian species found in the rainforests of India’s Western Ghats mountain range. This caecilian, Ichthyophis beddomei, exhibits a brown body with a yellow stripe running along each side. It burrows in soil and leaf-litter, while its larvae reside in streams and mud.
Cane Toad
Originally native to Central and South America, the cane toad, Rhinella marina, has become an invasive species in Australia, as well as several Caribbean islands and Southeast Asian regions. Introduced as a means of pest control, these large amphibians have had detrimental effects on native species. The glands behind their eyes produce potent toxins, making them dangerous to predators. Many Australian species, such as the northern quoll, have suffered due to the arrival of cane toads.
Chinese Giant Salamander
The Chinese giant salamander, scientifically known as Andrias davidianus, holds the title for being the largest amphibian globally. Growing up to 1.8 meters (5.9 feet) in length and weighing up to 30 kilograms (66 pounds), this dark brown creature with mottled markings is fully aquatic. It retains its gills even in adulthood and resides in hill streams within forested regions of central, southwestern, and southern China. Unfortunately, due to overhunting for food and habitat loss, the Chinese giant salamander is critically endangered.
Common Mudpuppy
The common mudpuppy, Necturus maculosus, is an aquatic salamander found in freshwater streams and lakes in the eastern United States and southern Canada. It spends its entire life in the water, retaining its gills throughout adulthood. With a length of approximately 33 cm (13 inches), this nocturnal species feeds on various invertebrates, including insects, mollusks, and worms.
Common Toad
The common toad, Bufo bufo, is a widespread amphibian found throughout Europe. As the continent’s fourth most common amphibian, it belongs to the Bufonidae family, known as the “true toad” family. Like other members of this family, the common toad possesses prominent poison glands located on either side of the neck behind the eye. This warty-skinned amphibian undertakes annual migrations to breeding pools.
Crucifix Toad/Holy Cross Frog
The crucifix toad, also referred to as the holy cross frog, stands out as one of the most striking amphibians in Australia. Its yellow/lime green coloration and bright markings serve as a warning to potential predators. When threatened, this frog secretes a thick, sticky “glue” as a defense mechanism. The presence of a cross marking on its back gives this species its name. The crucifix toad spends most of its life underground, emerging only after heavy rain for breeding purposes.
Edible Frog
The edible frog, Pelophylax kl. Esculentus, is the second most common amphibian in Europe. In France, its legs are consumed as a delicacy, hence its name. This species belongs to the “green frog species complex,” a closely-related group that also includes the marsh frog and pool frog. Growing to a length of approximately 11 cm (4.33 in), the edible frog displays bright green coloration with yellow and black markings. During mating, males inflate large air sacs on either side of their heads.
European Common Frog/Common Frog/Grass Frog
Also known as the European common brown frog, the common frog, or the grass frog, the European common frog (Rana temporaria) is the most prevalent amphibian in Europe. It can be found throughout the continent, typically in or near ponds and marshes. Common frogs in northern Europe hibernate during the winter season.
European Fire Salamander
The European fire salamander, Salamandra salamandra, is one of the most common salamander species in Europe. It resides in forests and woodlands across most of mainland Europe. This distinct amphibian showcases a black body with patches of yellow. Growing to a length of approximately 25 cm (9.8 inches), some individuals may exceed 30 cm (11.8 inches) in length.
Goliath Frog
The Goliath frog, Conraua goliath, holds the title of being the largest frog in the world. This African amphibian can reach a body length of up to 32 cm (12.6 in) and weigh up to 3.25 kg (7.17 lb). It is found in a small area encompassing Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea in western Africa. The Goliath frog prefers habitats such as fast-flowing rainforest rivers and waterfalls. Unfortunately, this species is endangered due to habitat loss, hunting for food, and the pet trade.
Green Tree Frog/White’s Tree Frog
The green tree frog, scientifically known as Litoria caerulea, is a large tree frog species with a body length of up to 11.5 cm (4.5 in). It is found in various regions of North and East Australia. This adaptable frog thrives in diverse habitats, including woodlands, grasslands, and even urban environments where it is often encountered in Australian gardens. The green tree frog is also a popular choice as a pet and can live for over 20 years in captivity.
Hellbender
The hellbender, Cryptobranchus alleganiensis, holds the distinction of being the largest amphibian in the Americas and the third-largest globally. With lengths reaching up to 74 cm (29 in), this impressive creature inhabits clean, fast-flowing rivers and streams in the eastern United States. It possesses unique adaptations such as the ability to respire through its skin and loose frills of skin along its sides. Unfortunately, the hellbender is classified as vulnerable due to habitat degradation and pollution.
Horned Marsupial Frog
The horned marsupial frog, Gastrotheca cornuta, belongs to the family Hemiphractidae, which includes several species known as “marsupial frogs.” These frogs are named for their unique reproductive strategy, in which their young develop in pouches on the female’s back. The horned marsupial frog lays the largest amphibian eggs known to date. Its entire larval stage occurs within the mother’s pouch, and the larvae emerge as miniature frogs called “froglets.” This species changes color at night, appearing tan instead of brown.
Long-Nosed Horned Frog
The long-nosed horned frog, Megophrys nasuta, is found in the rainforests of Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Sumatra, and Borneo. Known for its distinct triangular projections above the eyes, resembling horns, this frog also possesses an elongated, triangular nose. Its body is patterned with various shades of brown, providing excellent camouflage against the leafy forest floor where it resides. Although the global conservation status of this species is classified as “Least Concern,” it is considered endangered in Singapore due to habitat loss and a significant decline in population.
Nauta Salamander
The Nauta salamander, Bolitoglossa altamazonica, is one of the few salamanders present in South America. Salamanders are more commonly found in North America. Belonging to the Plethodontidae family, known as “lungless salamanders,” this species lacks lungs and breathes through its skin and tissues in its mouth. The Nauta salamander inhabits the lowland rainforests of Central and South America, reaching a length of approximately 10 cm (4 in).
Paedophryne Amanuensis
Paedophryne amanuensis is the world’s smallest frog, amphibian, and vertebrate, measuring a mere 7.7 mm (0.3 in) in body length. This tiny frog is found in the forests of southeastern Papua New Guinea, residing in the leaf litter to maintain moisture. It is nocturnal and emits sounds similar to those of insects, aiding its discovery by herpetologists. Discovered in 2009 by Christopher Austin and Eric Rittmeyer, this species continues to fascinate researchers.
Poison Dart Frogs
The poison dart frogs, belonging to the Dendrobatidae family, are widely recognized amphibians. Found exclusively in Central and South America, these frogs exhibit diverse species. The name “poison dart frog” stems from the toxic secretions produced by glands in their skin. Indigenous hunters historically used these toxins to coat the tips of their darts, enhancing their lethality. The brightly colored skin of poison dart frogs serves as a warning to predators, a phenomenon known as aposematism. Among these frogs, the golden poison dart frog (Phyllobates terribilis) stands out as one of the most poisonous animals in the world. Just one individual contains enough poison to potentially kill up to 20 people.
Red-Eyed Tree Frog
The red-eyed tree frog, scientifically named Agalychnis callidryas, is one of the world’s most iconic amphibians. Native to the rainforests from southern Mexico to Colombia, this species inhabits the canopy level of the forest. Its vibrant green coloration provides effective camouflage, while its large red eyes serve as a startling defense mechanism when threatened. The red-eyed tree frog is known for its remarkable appearance and unique behaviors.
Taita African Caecilian
The Taita African caecilian, Boulengerula taitana, is found in the forests of the Taita Hills region in southeast Kenya. With a snake-like appearance and a maximum length of approximately 34.8 cm (13.7 in), this caecilian displays a blue body with darker rings. It is a burrowing amphibian that feeds on earthworms and other invertebrates. Notably, its larvae feed on their mother’s specially-developed thick skin. Unfortunately, the Taita African caecilian is currently endangered due to habitat loss caused by deforestation.
Tomato Frog
The tomato frog, Dyscophus antongilii, derives its name from its tomato-like coloration and round shape. This African amphibian’s bright red-orange skin serves as a warning to predators that it is toxic. When threatened, the tomato frog secretes a thick, sticky white slime from its skin. It is found exclusively in Madagascar, inhabiting various habitats such as rainforests, swamps, and marshes. Females are significantly larger than males, reaching lengths of up to 10.5 cm (4.13 in).
White-Lipped Tree
Frog/Giant Tree Frog The white-lipped tree frog, scientifically known as Litoria infrafrenata, holds the title of being the world’s largest tree frog. Females, the larger of the sexes, can reach a body length of 14 cm (5.5 in). This species features bright green coloration with a distinctive white stripe along the lower lip, continuing along the sides of the neck. Equipped with large pads on its toes, the white-lipped tree frog is an adept climber, making use of its arboreal habitat.
And that concludes our list of amphibians with their unique characteristics and facts. We hope you’ve enjoyed exploring the fascinating world of these diverse creatures. Should you have any further questions, feel free to ask!