Amphibian skin

Amphibian skin is a thin, permeable outer covering that helps many amphibians exchange water, gases, and dissolved substances with their surroundings. Its glands also produce mucus and, in some species, defensive chemicals.

Cutaneous respiration: Gas exchange across the skin, with oxygen entering and carbon dioxide leaving by diffusion. This is the skin’s direct route for oxygen uptake and carbon dioxide release.
Epidermis: The outer epithelial layer of skin, formed from closely packed cells. This thin outer layer lies directly between the amphibian’s body and its environment.
Chytridiomycosis: An amphibian disease caused by chytrid fungi that infect the skin and can disrupt its functions. Infection can impair skin processes essential to water and electrolyte balance.
Reptile skin: The skin of reptiles, generally covered by keratinized scales that limit water loss. Its more water-resistant surface contrasts with amphibian skin’s permeability.
Osmoregulation: The control of water and dissolved-ion balance in an organism. Permeable skin makes water and ion balance a constant physiological challenge.
Dermis: The connective-tissue layer beneath the epidermis, containing vessels, nerves, and glands. Its vessels and glands supply many of the skin’s exchange and secretory functions.
Amphibian decline: The widespread reduction of amphibian populations and species, driven by multiple environmental pressures. Skin permeability makes amphibians particularly exposed to some pollutants and pathogens.
Fish gill: A respiratory organ that extracts dissolved oxygen from water across thin, vascular surfaces. Gills perform aquatic gas exchange through specialized structures rather than the whole body surface.
Amphibian mucous glands: Skin glands that secrete mucus, keeping the surface moist and reducing water loss and friction. Their secretions help maintain the moist surface needed for skin-based exchange.
Diffusion: The net movement of particles from regions of higher concentration to lower concentration. Gases and dissolved substances cross amphibian skin down concentration gradients.

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