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Amphibian

Characteristics

Amphibians are characterized as having smooth, slimy skin that is semi-permeable to allow for water and gas exchange. The word amphibian derives from the Greek amphibios, which means "living a double-life". Although many modern amphibians provide exceptions, the standard life cycle is that eggs are laid in water, larva hatch and live for a portion of time in water before going through metamorphosis, and then live as air-breathing adults on land.

Major Groups

The major extant groups include Caecilians, Frogs, and Salamanders.