What are two common names for jumping, tailless amphibia?

The familiar creatures often referred to as frogs and toads are indeed excellent examples of jumping, tailless amphibians. Both belong to the order Anura, a scientific classification that literally translates to "without a tail," accurately describing adult members of this diverse group. It is interesting to note that while all toads are technically a type of frog, not all frogs are considered to be toads. There is no strict scientific distinction between the two, but rather common names are used to broadly categorize them based on a set of shared characteristics.

As amphibians, these animals lead a "double life," typically starting as aquatic larvae with gills before undergoing metamorphosis to develop lungs and limbs for life on land, though they often remain tied to water for breeding. Their skin is permeable and often moist, which allows for cutaneous respiration in addition to breathing with lungs. The powerful hind legs seen in many species are well-adapted for their characteristic jumping locomotion, a primary means of movement and escape from predators.

While both are tailless, jumping amphibians, the common names "frog" and "toad" often refer to subtle differences in their appearance and preferred habitats. Frogs typically possess smoother, slimier skin and longer, more powerful hind legs designed for leaping and swimming, often staying close to water sources. Toads, on the other hand, tend to have drier, bumpier, and warty skin, along with shorter legs more suited for walking or making shorter hops, allowing them to venture further from water into more terrestrial environments.