What is the Difference Between Amphibians and Reptiles?
In the animal kingdom, amphibians and reptiles are two different types of classifications. While some animals may have characteristics or traits from each of these classifications, there are distinct differences that differentiate them.
Amphibian Characteristics
Amphibians are usually characterized by four-legged animals that have a moist, slimy feel and need to stay near wetlands or other sources of water. In colder climates, amphibians hibernate during the winter. The following are some of the features of amphibians:
- Featherless: Amphibians lack feathers and lack hair, scales, fur, and any other type of covering.
- Hibernation: Amphibians need to hibernate, as the cold temperatures will kill them. They can be found in swamps, ponds, and other wet areas.
- Cold Blooded: Amphibians tend to be ectothermic, meaning cold-blooded, as they rely on their environment to provide warmth.
- Life Cycle: Amphibians have a unique life cycle that involves living in the water for most of their lives, but also transitioning to land as an adult.
Reptile Characteristics
Reptiles, on the other hand, are characterized by their dry, scaly skin and their ability to survive dry climates and environments better than amphibians. The following are some of the features of reptiles:
- Scales: Reptiles have thick scales that protect them from their environment and from predators.
- Cold Blooded: Like amphibians, reptiles are ectothermic, meaning cold-blooded, as they rely on their environment to provide warmth.
- Live on Land: Reptiles typically live on land and can survive in dry climates better than amphibians.
- Eggs: Reptiles lay eggs in order to reproduce and the eggs usually have thick shells to protect them.
To summarize, the main difference between amphibians and reptiles is their skin, where reptiles have thick scales and amphibians usually have moist, slimy skin. Additionally, amphibians need to stay near wetlands, while reptiles can survive in dryer climates. Lastly, amphibians have a unique life cycle that involves living in water for most of their lives, while reptiles lay eggs.
