Problem 199 - Objective Biology for NEET

Question

Select the correct matching: Column I Column II A. Bufo 1\. Salamander B. Frog 2\. Rana C. Hyla 3\. Limbless amphibian D. Salamandra 4\. Tree frog E. Ichthyophis - 5\. Toad (a) \(\mathrm{A}-2, \mathrm{~B}-5, \mathrm{C}-4, \mathrm{D}-1, \mathrm{E}-3\) (b) \(\mathrm{A}-5, \mathrm{~B}-2, \mathrm{C}-4, \mathrm{D}-1, \mathrm{E}-3\) (c) \(\mathrm{A}-2, \mathrm{~B}-4, \mathrm{C}-5, \mathrm{D}-1, \mathrm{E}-3\) (d) \(\mathrm{A}-5, \mathrm{~B}-4, \mathrm{C}-2, \mathrm{D}-1, \mathrm{E}-3\)

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The correct answer is option (b) \(\mathrm{A}-5, \mathrm{~B}-2, \mathrm{C}-4, \mathrm{D}-1, \mathrm{E}-3\).

Step 1: Understanding the terms

First, get acquainted with all the terms given in the problem. \n\n- Bufo: This is a genus of true toads.\n- Frog: Zoologically, this term refers to a member of the order Anura, which is not a toad.\n- Hyla: This is a genus of tree frogs.\n- Salamandra: It represent a genus of salamanders.\n- Ichthyophis: It is a genus of limbless amphibians.\n\nSo, knowing what species each term refers to, shall provide the basis for the next step.

Step 2: Matching the terms

Using the understanding from Step 1, let's match the terms from Column I to those in Column II. \n\n- Bufo (A) matches with Toad (5).\n- Frog (B) matches with Rana (2).\n- Hyla (C) matches with Tree frog (4).\n- Salamandra (D) matches with Salamander (1).\n- Ichthyophis (E) matches with Limbless amphibian (3).

Step 3: Selecting the correct option

After finding the matches, let's find the option that corresponds with our findings. It seems that option (b) \(\mathrm{A}-5, \mathrm{~B}-2, \mathrm{C}-4, \mathrm{D}-1, \mathrm{E}-3\) matches exactly with our earlier determined matches and is our correct answer.

Key Concepts

Toads

Toads are fascinating creatures that belong to the family Bufonidae. Unlike their frog relatives, toads often have dry, bumpy skin. This texture helps them adapt to drier environments. Toads typically have shorter legs compared to frogs, which suit their lifestyle of walking rather than hopping when on land. Toads usually lay their eggs in long chains in aquatic environments, where the young develop into tadpoles before transforming into adults. Many species of toads possess parotoid glands behind their eyes, which secrete toxins as a defense mechanism against predators. Because of their adaptability, toads can be found in various habitats, from moist wetlands to deserts.

Frogs

Frogs are well-known amphibians often found near water sources like ponds, marshes, and streams. These creatures are known for their smooth, moist skin and webbed feet, which aid in swimming and jumping. They belong to the order Anura and share their lineage with toads but exhibit distinct differences in morphology and habitat preferences. Frogs have a remarkable life cycle that starts with eggs laid in water. The eggs hatch into tadpoles, which undergo significant transformation, in stages like leg development, a process known as metamorphosis. Frogs are carnivorous, feeding on insects, small fish, and other invertebrates. Their diet and strong hind legs make them proficient hunters. Their skin also plays a crucial role in respiration, making moisture availability critical for survival.

Tree Frogs

Tree frogs are a unique group of frogs known for their ability to climb and live most of their lives in trees. Unlike other frogs, tree frogs possess specially adapted toe pads that allow them to grip and move efficiently on vertical surfaces, such as leaves and branches. The genus "Hyla" is one of the most recognized groups within tree frogs. These amphibians are usually distinguished by their vivid coloration, which can range from bright greens to more subdued shades depending on their habitat and camouflage needs. Although primarily arboreal, tree frogs also come down to the ground, often for breeding purposes. Like other amphibians, tree frogs lay their eggs in water, and the young tadpoles develop rapidly to avoid predators.

Salamanders

Salamanders are a diverse group of amphibians known for their lizard-like appearance. They belong to the order Urodela, distinct for their long bodies, tails, and short limbs. Salamanders are mainly found in the Northern Hemisphere, inhabiting moist environments such as forests, caves, and wetlands. What sets salamanders apart is their ability to regenerate lost body parts, a remarkable feature within the animal kingdom. Many salamanders exhibit dual life cycles, living both in water and on land, and some species are exclusively aquatic. Their diet mainly consists of small invertebrates and, occasionally, plant material. Certain salamander species, like the "Salamandra," have striking coloration with patterns that serve as a warning to potential predators about their toxicity.

Limbless Amphibians

Limbless amphibians, also known as caecilians, are an intriguing group within the Class Amphibia. Unlike other amphibians such as frogs, toads, and salamanders, caecilians have no limbs, resembling worms or snakes. The genus "Ichthyophis" is a well-known group of limbless amphibians. Caecilians are specialized for a life spent mostly underground; they live in burrows, using their strong skull and body muscles to burrow through soil. This lifestyle has led to their reduced eyesight since vision is less important in darkness. Despite their unusual appearance, caecilians play a crucial role in the ecosystem by aiding in soil aeration and controlling insect populations. Reproduction among caecilians can be unique, with some species giving live birth and others laying eggs in moist environments.