Hypsiboas pulchellus (Anura, Hylidae) tadpoles, a novel amphibian experimental model in aquatic pollution research

Abstract

It is accepted worldwide that amphibians are the evolutionary step that happened when vertebrates left the oceans, lakes, and other water bodies and came onto land. Today, amphibians comprise three lineages, including frogs and toads (Anura), salamanders (Urodela or Caudata), and caecilians (Gymnophiona, Apoda, or Caecilia). Amphibians are ectotherms and their skin is permeable to water, ions, and respiratory gases. The essential characteristics of their environment include appropriate levels of humidity, temperature, and lighting, as well as retreat sites. Terrestrial and arboreal species require moist substrates, water dishes, and high relative humidity.