Triadobatrachus massinoti in life

Triadobatrachus (’triple frog’) represents the first known member of the frog lineage.

Triadobatrachus lives much like our time’s modern amphibians, and could even hop like a frog. However, the distinctive fused ring of bones formed from a frog’s collarbone, sternum and ribcage that grants a frog the ability to land would come much later, making every escape attempt a clumsy crash landing.

Triadobatrachus, like most amphibians, cannot endure the presence of saltwater, and needs fresh water in order to properly respirate.