Lab 4: External Anatomy of Toads

Frogs

Amphibians known for their jumping ability and semi-aquatic lifestyle.

Toads

Amphibians with dry, warty skin and shorter hind legs, similar to frogs.

Anura

The order of amphibians encompassing frogs and toads.

Dissection

Carefully cutting open and examining internal structures of organisms for study.

Histology

Study of the microscopic anatomy of tissues.

Epidermis

Outer skin layer acting as a protective barrier.

Dermis

Inner skin layer containing blood vessels and nerves.

Stratified

Arranged in layers or strata.

Ecdysis

Shedding or molting the outer skin layer.

Melanophores

Cells responsible for animal coloration.

Chromatophores

Skin cells changing color.

Connective Tissue

Tissue supporting and connecting organs in the body.

Compound Light Microscope

Microscope with multiple lenses for magnification.

Dissecting Pan

Container for dissecting small organisms.

Probe

Tool for delicate tissue exploration.

Frontal Plane

Divides the body into front and back portions.

Sagittal Plane

Divides the body into right and left halves.

Transverse Plane

Divides the body into upper and lower portions.

Bilateral Symmetry

Body parts arranged in mirror-image halves.

Dorsal

Upper side or back of an organism.

Ventral

Lower side or belly of an organism.

Anterior

Front or head end of an organism.

Posterior

Tail or hind end of an organism.

Proximal

Closer to the point of attachment.

Distal

Farther from the point of attachment.

Axial Region

Central body part including head and trunk.

Appendicular Region

Body part including limbs or appendages.

Cloacal Aperture

Opening at the posterior end of digestive, reproductive, and urinary tracts in amphibians.

Nictitating Membrane

Transparent third eyelid in some animals.

Paratoid Gland

Gland behind the eyes in toads secreting toxins.

Prehallux

Rudimentary toe on the inner side of the foot in some amphibians.

Amplexus

Mating position in frogs and toads for fertilization.

Sexually Dimorphic

Visible differences between male and female of the same species.

Forelimbs

Front limbs or arms of an animal.

Hindlimbs

Rear limbs or legs of an animal.

Webbed Toes

Toes connected by skin for swimming.

Dorsolateral

Relating to the back and side surfaces of an organism.

Amphibians

Cold-blooded vertebrates living on land but reproducing in water.