5. Buccal Pumping: Unique Breathing Mechanism
Amphibians employ a fascinating technique known as buccal pumping to breathe. Instead of relying on a diaphragm like mammals, they lower the floor of their mouth to draw air in, then raise it to push air into their lungs. This form of respiration is highly distinctive among vertebrates and underlines the amphibians’ unique place in evolutionary history. Buccal pumping allows them to efficiently utilize their simple lungs, especially when out of water. Further reading