ecaudata

Ecaudata is a taxonomic infraorder of amphibians that includes all living frogs and toads. The name "Ecaudata" literally translates from Latin to "without a tail," referring to the most prominent characteristic of adult frogs and toads, which lack tails. This feature distinguishes them from salamanders and newts, which belong to the infraorder Caudata (tailed amphibians).

Frogs and toads are found on every continent except Antarctica. They exhibit a wide range of sizes, from tiny species measuring less than a centimeter to large ones that can exceed 30 centimeters in length. Their physical appearance varies greatly, reflecting diverse adaptations to different environments. Many species are arboreal, adapted for climbing with specialized toe pads, while others are terrestrial, fossorial (burrowing), or aquatic.

The life cycle of ecaudates typically involves an aquatic larval stage, known as a tadpole, which breathes with gills and has a tail. Through a process called metamorphosis, the tadpole gradually develops into the adult form, losing its tail, growing legs, and developing lungs for breathing air. Reproduction is usually external, with the female laying eggs in water or moist environments, and the male fertilizing them.

The diversity within Ecaudata is vast, with thousands of described species organized into numerous families. They play important ecological roles as both predators and prey within their ecosystems. Many species are sensitive to environmental changes, making them indicator species for the health of their habitats.