Frogs and toads have a 'lycra' type skin that protects
them from from injury and disease. It comes in wonderful
variations of colour and patterns.
Frog skin is water permiable, this means it can let
water in and out. Frogs don't often drink with their
mouths, they absorb water through their skin. They have
a 'seat pouch', an area on their bellies which is designed
for water absorbtion. They absorb through capillary
action from water or a moist surface.
In many species glands are modified to produce toxins
and other substances that will repel predators. Some
frog skin toxins are being researched as potential pain
medications.
Frogs have a huge variety of skin colous and patterns.
Colours can help warn preditors that the frog may be
poisonous. And many frogs change the colour of thier
skin to change their heat absorbtion rate so controling
their temperature. Also water and other secretions help
sustain temperature.
|