why do frogs have fat bodies

The Reason Frogs Have Fat Bodies

Frogs’ round, fat bodies are iconic features, but what is behind their shape?

Aquatic Environment

Frogs live primarily in water, so several of their physical adaptations help them survive in this environment. A fuller body helps them swim more efficiently by increasing buoyancy, allowing them to move quickly and easily.

Oxygen Absorption

Frogs also have larger bodies to increase the surface area from which their skin can absorb oxygen. Frogs don’t have lungs, so they use their moist, permeable skin to take in oxygen directly. A fat body lets them absorb more oxygen at once.

How Body Size Can Vary

Frogs can vary significantly in size depending on species and environment. Some tree-dwelling species in the tropics evolved slender bodies to help them stay light and agile in their environment. This adaptation allows them to move quickly in pursuit of prey or to avoid predators.

Frogs can also change their body sizes due to environmental stress. If conditions are cold, their bodies grow to create an insulating layer against the cold.

Overall, frogs have round, fat bodies to help them survive in their aquatic and semi-aquatic environments. These features provide them with many benefits, from increased oxygen absorption to added insulation.