Amphibians

/æmˈfɪbiənz/ noun

Definition

Animals like frogs, salamanders, and newts that live part of their life in water and part on land.

Etymology

From Greek 'amphi' (both) and 'bios' (life), literally 'double-life' creatures. Scientific term adopted in English by the 18th century.

Kelly Says

Amphibians are considered the canary in the coal mine for environmental health—their permeable skin absorbs toxins, making them super-sensitive to pollution, so declining frog populations signal ecosystem trouble.

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