The significance of the larval stage in the life cycle of amphibians is multifaceted. During this stage, amphibians typically undergo major physical changes through a process called metamorphosis. Larvae often inhabit aquatic environments and exhibit adaptations for swimming, such as gills for respiration. This stage allows for feeding and growth while facilitating the transition to a terrestrial adult form. Understanding larval development is essential for studying amphibian population dynamics, ecology, and conservation efforts due to their sensitivity to environmental changes.