Which respiratory structure allows for gas exchange in amphibians?

In amphibians, gas exchange occurs through multiple structures, which is unique compared to other animal groups. This adaptability allows them to thrive both in aquatic and terrestrial environments.

Gills are primarily used for breathing in the larval stage of amphibians, enabling them to extract oxygen from water. As they undergo metamorphosis, many amphibians develop lungs, which facilitate breathing when they are on land.

Additionally, amphibians possess permeable skin that serves as a significant respiratory surface. Their skin is richly supplied with blood vessels, allowing for the diffusion of oxygen and carbon dioxide directly between the air and the bloodstream. This skin respiration is particularly important in moist environments, where it enhances their ability to draw in oxygen without relying solely on lungs or gills.

Thus, the correct answer encompasses all these structures—gills, skin, and lungs—as they all play critical roles at different life stages and environments, underscoring the remarkable versatility of amphibian respiratory systems.