Large, robust amphibian native to eastern North America, known for its distinctive loud vocalization and significant ecological role in aquatic and semi-aquatic ecosystems.
Freshwater environments including ponds, lakes, marshes, and slow-moving streams across eastern and central North America, preferring warm, shallow water with abundant vegetation
Key predator in aquatic food webs, controlling insect and small vertebrate populations; serves as prey for larger predators; plays critical role in nutrient cycling
