"From frogs, toads, newts, and salamanders, to the lesser-known caecilians, there are over 8,000 species of amphibians alive today. Characterized by their moist, naked skin and the tadpole phase of their lives, they are uniquely adapted to occupy the interphase habitat between freshwater and land. This Very Short Introduction looks at amphibian evolution, adaptations, and biology. Exploring topics from their complex courtship behaviour to how their permeable skin enables them to thrive in their habitat, T. S. Kemp covers the whole history of amphibians, from their origins 360 million years ago to the extinction threat they face from humans today." -- Provided by publisher.

What is an amphibian? -- The evolution of amphibians -- Reproduction and life history -- How amphibians move -- How amphibians feed -- The amphibians' world: sense organs and communication -- Amphibians and humans -- Conservation and the future of amphibians.