Amphibians, such as frogs and salamanders, undergo a unique life cycle that typically includes four stages: egg, larva, metamorphosis, and adult. The life cycle begins when adult amphibians lay eggs in water, which hatch into larvae, commonly known as tadpoles. These larvae breathe through gills and primarily live in water. As they grow, tadpoles undergo metamorphosis, during which they develop legs, lose their tails, and transition to breathing air through lungs. Once metamorphosis is complete, they emerge as adult amphibians, capable of living both in water and on land. This dual life is a defining characteristic of amphibians.