How Do Tadpoles Become Frogs?
Adult frogs lay eggs. The eggs hatch into tadpoles that later develop into adult frogs through a process called metamorphosis. A tadpole is considered a frog larvae.
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Function
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Tadpoles transform from their initial form into small frogs called froglets by growing hind legs, forearms and losing their tail, in that order. They will also eventually grow teeth, a tongue and thicker skin. Their eyes will become more prominent and their body shape will also change until they are fully-formed frogs.
Time Frame
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A hormone called thyroxine triggers metamorphosis, and once this occurs a tadpole transforming into a fully-formed frog takes approximately two to five months, depending on the species.
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Internal Changes
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Tadpoles don't only change on the outside when turning into frogs, but on the inside as well. For example, tadpoles eat plant material while frogs are carnivores, so the tadpole's digestive system transforms to accommodate more protein.
Misconceptions
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Tadpoles' tails do not fall off as is commonly believed. Instead, their tail is reabsorbed into their body.
Fun Fact
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When they're born, tadpoles can live and breathe underwater until they lose their gills, develop lungs and must breathe air.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit frog image by Dwight Davis from Fotolia.com
