Frogs & Toads in Ohio

A series of flashcards focused on the vocabulary and key concepts related to frogs and toads in Ohio, including their taxonomy, reproduction, and characteristics.

Anura

An order of amphibians that includes all frogs and toads, characterized by the absence of a tail in adults.

Amplexus

A mating position in frogs and toads where the male clasps the female to fertilize the eggs as they are laid.

Metamorphosis

A biological process in which a juvenile form (tadpole) transforms into an adult form (frog) with significant morphological changes.

Chytrid fungus

A fungal pathogen (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis) that infects amphibians, leading to severe declines in populations.

Morphology

The study of the form and structure of organisms; in this context, it refers to physical characteristics of frogs and toads.

Oviposition

The process of laying eggs, particularly in the context of frog and toad reproduction.

Tadpole

The larval stage of frogs and toads, typically aquatic and characterized by tailed bodies and gills for breathing.

Fowler's Toad

An amphibian species (Anaxyrus fowleri) found in Ohio, recognized by the number of warts in dark dorsal spots.

True Toads

Amphibians belonging to the family Bufonidae, known for their warty skin and terrestrial habits.

Tree Frogs

Frogs belonging to the family Hylidae, typically characterized by their ability to climb and their distinctive calls.

True Frogs

Frogs of the family Ranidae which possess the typical frog morphology and are often aquatic.

Eastern Spadefoot Toad

A species of toad (Scaphiopus holbrooki) recognized for its spade-like tubercle used for burrowing.

Northern Green Frog

A frog species (Lithobates clamitans) found in Ohio, identifiable by its pointed snout and yellow throat.

American Bullfrog

The largest frog in North America (Lithobates catesbeianus), known for its round snout and robust size.

Pickerel Frog

A frog species (Lithobates palustris) recognized for its neat pattern of rectangular spots.

Wood Frog

A terrestrial frog species (Lithobates sylvatica) that has a 'Zorro-like' mask and hibernates in winter.

Chorus Frog

Small frogs from the genus Pseudacris, known for their vocalizations during the breeding season.

Northern Leopard Frog

A frog species (Lithobates pipiens) known for its black spots and often found in meadows.

Gray Treefrog

A tree frog species (Hyla versicolor) recognized for its color-changing ability and bright orange hind legs.

Cope's Gray Treefrog

A species of treefrog (Hyla chrysoscelis) similar to the Gray Treefrog but identifiable by its distinct call.