Class Amphibia — Amphibians

Amphibians are a group of ectothermic vertebrates that typically live part of their lives in water and part on land. Most species begin life as aquatic larvae with gills and later metamorphose into air-breathing adults with lungs. Their permeable skin plays an important role in respiration and water balance, making them particularly sensitive to environmental … Continue reading "Class Amphibia — Amphibians"

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Phylum Chordata – Vertebrates & Relatives

Chordates are animals that at some stage in their life cycle possess a notochord, a dorsal nerve cord, gill slits, and a post‑anal tail. This phylum includes all vertebrates as well as two smaller groups: tunicates and lancelets. Chordates range from simple filter‑feeding marine animals to the most complex land vertebrates, including humans. Subdivision of … Continue reading "Phylum Chordata – Vertebrates & Relatives"

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