Why are frogs said to have “two lives”?
The correct answer and explanation is:
Frogs are said to have “two lives” because they undergo a dramatic transformation from an aquatic larval stage (tadpole) to a terrestrial adult form. This process is known as metamorphosis. The first life refers to the early stage of a frog’s existence as a tadpole, which is entirely aquatic and breathes through gills. The tadpole feeds primarily on algae and is adapted to life in water.
During the second life, the tadpole undergoes several stages of development, including the formation of legs, the absorption of the tail, and the development of lungs for breathing air. This transformation allows the frog to leave its aquatic environment and live on land as an adult. The adult frog typically becomes a carnivore, feeding on insects and other small invertebrates. It also loses its gills and becomes capable of breathing through its lungs and skin.
This metamorphosis is a key feature of the frog’s life cycle. It allows the species to exploit two very different habitats: water for the early developmental stages and land for the mature adult stages. The transition between these stages is a remarkable adaptation that helps frogs thrive in diverse environments.
In summary, frogs are said to have “two lives” because they experience two distinct stages of existence: one as an aquatic tadpole and another as a terrestrial adult. The ability to live in both environments is vital for their survival, as each stage plays a crucial role in the frog’s growth, reproduction, and life cycle.