The process of changing from a larva to an adult is called metamorphosis. The tadpole stage may last from 10 days to more than 2 years, depending on the species of frog or toad. Newly hatched tadpole Tadpoles live in shallow waters wherever frogs and toads are found. Most tadpoles inhabit ponds, lakes, or slow-moving rivers. The greatest variety of tadpoles live in the tropics.
Most tadpoles hatch from a jellylike mass of eggs laid in the water.
A tadpole has a large, rounded head and a long, flat tail. It uses the tail to propel itself through the water. Tadpoles breathe by means of gills. Most tadpoles eat algae and plant material. A tadpole has no legs when it hatches, but it begins to grow hind legs during the first stages of metamorphosis.