Which statement about amphibians and toxins is true?

Which statement about amphibians and toxins is true?

• A. Permeable skin can lead to absorption of toxins
• B. Permeable skin prevents toxin absorption
• C. Amphibians have impermeable skin to toxins
• D. Absorption of toxins is independent of skin permeability

Answer: (A)

Amphibians have thin, moist skin that serves as a major interface with their environment. Because this skin is permeable, substances in the surrounding water or on surfaces can diffuse through it and enter the body. This makes dermal exposure a realistic route for toxins to be absorbed, so the statement that permeable skin can lead to toxin absorption is true. The idea that skin prevents absorption, or that amphibian skin is impermeable to toxins, conflicts with how their skin functions. Similarly, saying toxin absorption is independent of skin permeability ignores the direct link between permeability and absorption. In practice, this permeability means extra care is needed when handling amphibians and toxins, including proper protective equipment and minimizing dermal contact.

Amphibians have thin, moist skin that serves as a major interface with their environment. Because this skin is permeable, substances in the surrounding water or on surfaces can diffuse through it and enter the body. This makes dermal exposure a realistic route for toxins to be absorbed, so the statement that permeable skin can lead to toxin absorption is true. The idea that skin prevents absorption, or that amphibian skin is impermeable to toxins, conflicts with how their skin functions. Similarly, saying toxin absorption is independent of skin permeability ignores the direct link between permeability and absorption. In practice, this permeability means extra care is needed when handling amphibians and toxins, including proper protective equipment and minimizing dermal contact.