Amphibians: A Very Short Introduction

Very Short Introductions: Brilliant, sharp, inspiring. From frogs, toads, newts, and salamanders to the lesser-known caecilians, over 8,000 species of amphibians are alive today. Characterized by their moist, naked skin and the tadpole phase of their lives, they are uniquely adapted to occupy the transitional habitat between freshwater and land.

This Very Short Introduction explores the evolution, adaptations, and biology of amphibians, from the first emergence of tetrapods onto land 370 million years ago to how their permeable skin enables them to thrive in their habitats today. T. S. Kemp describes how different amphibians go about their lives, examining their complex courtship behaviors and extraordinary ways of providing care for eggs and larvae. Finally, the relationship between amphibians and humans is explored, including their use as food, in folk medicine, as pets, and in scientific research.

Today, amphibians face a serious threat, with nearly half of all species at risk of extinction. Causes include habitat destruction, pollution, and disease, mostly resulting from human activities. Kemp shows that the conservation of amphibians is very much in our hands.

ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles across almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.