Tadpole
Tadpole metamorphosis follows a pattern of gradual development, which can be observed through the appearance of forelimbs and hind limbs and the resorption of the tail.
tadpole
zoology
Also known as: polliwog, pollywog
tadpole, aquatic larval stage of frogs and toads. Compared with the larvae of salamanders, tadpoles have short oval bodies with broad tails, small mouths, and no external gills. The internal gills are concealed by a covering known as an operculum. Tadpoles undergo a visually striking metamorphosis before they achieve adulthood. Most tadpoles are vegetarians, although those of a few species are carnivorous or even cannibalistic. Tadpole metamorphosis follows a pattern of gradual development of forelimbs...
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