Biology 2e is designed to cover the scope and sequence requirements of a typical two-semester biology course for science majors. The text provides comprehensive coverage of foundational research and core biology concepts through an evolutionary lens. Biology includes rich features that engage students in scientific inquiry, highlight careers in the biological sciences, and offer everyday applications. The book also includes various types of practice and homework questions that help students understand—and apply—key concepts. The 2nd edition has been revised to incorporate clearer, more current, and more dynamic explanations, while maintaining the same organization as the first edition. Art and illustrations have been substantially improved, and the textbook features additional assessments and related resources.

By the end of this section, you will be able to do the following:

Describe the important difference between the life cycle of amphibians and the life cycles of other vertebrates
Distinguish between the characteristics of Urodela, Anura, and Apoda
Describe the evolutionary history of amphibians

A fun music video exploring the different types of amphibians and their characteristics. [2:17]

Smithsonian Education presents Reviled and Revered: Toads, Turtles, Snakes, Salamanders, and Other Creepers and Crawlers. Get the facts about reptiles and amphibians. Learn about their unique characteristics, as well as explore why we love or hate them. Students will appreciate the excellent photographs and background information. Teachers will love the series of five lesson plans, complete with student handouts, discussion questions, lesson extensions, curriculum standards, and a resource list.

Students explore the relationship between living things and their environment, and how the environment can impact a species' ability to survive, while referring to the text to ask and answer questions.

Explore the biodiversity of the Class Amphibia through videos, photos and examples. [2:34]