Amphibians and reptiles differ in several key biological and ecological aspects: Skin
- Amphibians have smooth, moist, and permeable skin often covered with mucus, which helps prevent drying out and allows respiration through the skin. Their skin is delicate and porous, making them sensitive to toxins and pollutants
- Reptiles have dry, tough skin covered with protective scales made of keratin, which prevents water loss and allows them to survive in dry environments. Their scales can vary in size and texture and are adapted to protect against predators and harsh terrains
Reproduction and Development
- Amphibians lay soft, jelly-like eggs usually in water. Their young hatch as larvae (e.g., tadpoles) that breathe through gills and undergo metamorphosis to become adults, often shifting from aquatic to terrestrial life
- Reptiles lay eggs with leathery or hard shells on land, and hatchlings resemble miniature adults without undergoing metamorphosis
Respiration
- Amphibians breathe through their skin and lungs; larvae use gills. Their skin plays a significant role in gas exchange
- Reptiles rely primarily on lungs for respiration and cannot breathe through their skin
Habitat and Lifestyle
- Amphibians require moist or aquatic environments for at least part of their life cycle and are generally found in wet habitats
- Reptiles are primarily terrestrial and adapted to a wider range of habitats, including dry and arid environments; some species are aquatic but do not require water for reproduction
Thermoregulation
- Both are ectothermic (cold-blooded), relying on external heat sources to regulate body temperature, but reptiles often engage in behaviors like basking to control their temperature more actively
Examples
- Amphibians include frogs, toads, salamanders, newts, and caecilians
- Reptiles include snakes, lizards, turtles, crocodiles, and alligators
In summary, amphibians have moist, permeable skin, undergo metamorphosis, and depend on aquatic environments for reproduction, while reptiles have dry, scaly skin, hatch as miniature adults, and are better adapted to terrestrial life with protective eggshells
