Answer to Question #143028 in Zoology for RamC

Question

Name the three clades that represent Lissamphibia. List and describe the unique traits that support the monophyly of Lissamphibia

Answer 1

The three clades that represents Lissamphibia are : frogs(Salientia) salamanders (Caudata) and caecilians(Gymnophiona)

Unique traits that support the monophyly of Lissamphibia are as follows :

-Smooth, scaleless, permeable skin that allows gas exchange and the absorption of water.

-Stapes-operculum complex which are in contact with the auditory capsule, improve reception of aerial and seismic waves.

-Presence of green rods in the visual cells which allow the perception of more colours.

-Forced -pump ventilation system since their short ribs do not allow pulmonary ventilation so they pump the air through their mouth.

-Two types of skin glands. Mucuos glands maintain humidity whereas granular glands secrete toxins of different intensity.

-Skeletal characteristics comprise of :

A pair of occipital condyles.

Short, stiff ribs not encircling the body.

Four digits on the front limbs and five digits on the hind limbs.