How do amphibians use gills during the larval stage?

During the larval stage, most amphibians are completely aquatic and rely on their gills to conduct respiratory gas exchange. These gills serve as a primary mechanism for obtaining oxygen from the water while the animal is in its early developmental phase.1

In addition to the gills, some larvae—specifically frog tadpoles—utilize their large tail fins for respiration, as these structures contain blood vessels and provide a significant surface area for gas exchange. As the larvae undergo metamorphosis, the gills (and the tail fins in frogs) eventually degenerate, and the animals develop lungs or transition to relying on their skin for respiration. While most species lose their gills upon reaching adulthood, some salamanders, such as the axolotl, retain external gills throughout their entire lives.1