ascaphus

noun

Meaning

A genus of primitive, stream-dwelling frogs characterized by a small tail-like extension in males and a lack of vocal sacs.

Examples

  • The ascaphus is uniquely adapted to life in high-altitude, turbulent mountain streams.
  • Researchers studying the ascaphus discovered that these frogs rely on vibrations rather than vocal calls to communicate.

Synonyms: tailed frog, amphibian, anuran, vertebrate