Question: Eft is the name given to the juvenile terrestrial stage of what amphibious animal?
Show answer
Newt.
An “eft” is the term given to the juvenile terrestrial stage of newts, which are a type of salamander. Newts belong to the amphibian family and are renowned for their fascinating life cycle that encompasses distinct aquatic and terrestrial phases.
The life cycle of a newt begins with the laying of eggs in freshwater. After some time, these eggs hatch into larvae, which are aquatic and possess gills, allowing them to breathe underwater. They closely resemble tadpoles, which are the larval forms of frogs and toads. However, unlike most tadpoles, newt larvae keep their external gills even after growing limbs.
As the larva matures, it undergoes metamorphosis, transitioning from its fully aquatic form to the terrestrial eft stage. During this stage, the newt loses its gills, and its skin becomes rougher and better suited for life on land. Efts can be vibrant in color, often with striking patterns that may serve as a warning to potential predators about their toxic skin secretions.
After spending several years in the eft stage, wandering the forests and living away from water, the animal will undergo another transformation. It matures into its adult form, developing smoother skin and returning to a more aquatic environment, although still retaining the ability to live on land. In this adult phase, newts will breed and lay eggs, thus continuing the cycle of their intriguing life stages.
