Why Do Frogs Lay Their Eggs in Water?
Quick Answer
Although amphibious frogs live on land and in water, they must lay their eggs in water or the eggs will dry up, effectively killing the offspring inside. Frog eggs are covered with a glycoprotein, which helps keep the eggs moist. This glycoprotein has to keep in contact with a source of moisture, such as water.
Continue Reading
Full Answer
Another reason why frogs have to lay their eggs in water is because once the eggs hatch, the tadpoles inside need to live in water during the first phase of their lives. This is because tadpoles have gills that require them to swim underwater to breath. If a tadpole is hatched on land, it is unable to breath and eventually dies.
Unlike bird eggs, frog eggs are very soft. As a result, they need extra cushioning that the water provides to better protect the tadpoles inside.
According to LiveScience, there is one frog that has the ability to lay eggs both on land and in water. It is called the yellow Panamanian amphibian frog. Instead of laying eggs in ponds like traditional frogs, this frog tends to lay its eggs on plants that are hanging over sources of water. Once the eggs hatch, the tadpoles simply fall into the water source below.
Learn more about FrogsRelated Questions
-
Q:
What Are Frog Oviducts?
A: In female frogs, oviducts produce eggs by providing a passage from the inside of the frog's body to the outside world. Biology Corner states that similar s... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How Has a Frog Adapted to Its Environment?
A: Different frogs have different adaptations, but generally frogs have eyes on the top of their head for seeing out of the water, a long, sticky tongue for c... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How Do You Get Rid of Frogs?
A: To get rid of frogs, remove all available water sources on the property, reduce damp vegetation, such as thick underbrush, and place frog traps made with P... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How Do Frogs Breathe Underwater?
A: Adult frogs breathe through the skin when under water. They have thin skin, which has a massive network of blood vessels and capillaries under it. Oxygen e... Full Answer >Filed Under:
