I’m always shocked by how many people still don’t know the difference between amphibians vs reptiles. Many people confuse the two or lump them into the same category. Yet, they’re two different groups of animals with distinct characteristics.
The main types of amphibians include frogs, toads, salamanders, newts, and caecilians (limbless amphibians resembling worms or snakes). Then, reptiles consist of turtles, snakes, lizards, crocodiles, alligators, and more.
Yes, some reptiles and amphibians look alike at first glance (such as lizards and salamanders) but just because they share a similar appearance doesn’t mean the species are related. So, let’s dive into the amphibians vs reptiles differences to make it easier for people to tell them apart.
Amphibians vs Reptiles Differences
There isn’t just one explanation for the difference between amphibians and reptiles. Several factors distinguish the two, such as the following.
Skin
The most notable difference between amphibians and reptiles is their skin. Reptiles are known for having dry, scaly skin. However, amphibians don’t have scales. Their skin is usually smooth and moist. Thus, amphibian skin is usually much more sensitive than reptile skin because it isn’t protected by thick scales.
Amphibian skin is fragile because it’s permeable, meaning substances like water and air can easily pass through it. This trait makes it easier for amphibians to stay moist, which is essential for keeping them healthy.
Defensive Abilities
Based on skin texture, it would seem like reptiles are better at protecting themselves. Most of them have thick scales to protect their bodies, and many of them have sharp teeth and claws too. These features are easily recognizable by observing a reptile up close.
Amphibians don’t have scale-like armor on their bodies, and most don’t have claws or teeth. If they do have teeth, their teeth are very small and not easy to notice. Lacking these features can make amphibians more vulnerable, but they have other methods of protection. For example, many amphibians are poisonous to deter animals from eating them.
Poison/Venom
Poison and venom are common ways for animals to protect themselves. Venom is when the animal bites another creature to hurt them while poison hurts a creature if they eat the animal. Many reptiles are venomous and many amphibians are poisonous. However, it’s very rare for reptiles to be poisonous and amphibians to be venomous.
Reptiles are likely venomous because they’re equipped with more ways to defend themselves. So, biting an animal in defense or when hunting doesn’t put them at a huge risk since they have sharp teeth, thick scales, and sometimes claws. Amphibians don’t have enough features to lunge at other animals, so they rely on predators avoiding them because of poison.
Many amphibians have bright colors to warn predators that they’re poisonous. Poison dart frogs are the most obvious example of this. When predators see animals with bright colors, they often assume that the animal is toxic. So, they avoid eating the prey, which protects both them and the poisonous animal.
Regeneration
Some lizards are known for dropping their tails as a defense mechanism. Yet, their tails usually don’t grow back the same and they can’t drop them a second time. That’s the extent of reptile regeneration, but amphibians have much more impressive regenerative properties.
Many amphibians, especially salamanders, can regenerate almost any body part if needed. This includes limbs, tails, parts of their eyes, and even organs like hearts. So, even though amphibians are sensitive creatures, they can survive by regrowing certain body parts if they get hurt. It’s so impressive that it sounds like something out of a fantasy novel.
Habitat
Both amphibians and reptiles are cold-blooded, meaning their body temperatures depend on their environment. While that plays a role in where both animal groups live, they still tend to have different habitat types.
Amphibians typically live somewhere close to water since they need to stay moist at all times. Typically, they will live under moist logs and rocks near a lake or pond. Reptiles have more variety in their habitats, but many don’t require regular moisture the way amphibians do. Reptiles typically need a spot where they can bask in the sun.
Of course, every individual species is different. For example, some snakes and lizards live in deserts while turtles and alligators almost always live in or near water.
Life Stages
Amphibians have a unique life cycle. Most amphibians lay eggs in water, which hatch into aquatic larvae (such as tadpoles for frogs). Over time, the larvae transition from breathing water to breathing air so they can become land-dwelling creatures. Most amphibians return to the water to breed, even if they rarely swim otherwise.
Reptiles usually lay eggs on dry land. When the reptiles hatch, they have lungs and live similarly to the adults. Yet, they’re usually much smaller until they grow into their full-grown form. Reptiles don’t go through as many changes throughout their life cycle as amphibians do.
Again, the life stages of each animal varies based on the species. There are a few amphibians and reptiles that are viviparous, meaning they give birth to live young instead of eggs, but that’s rare.
Eggs
Even though both reptiles and amphibians lay eggs, their eggs are very different from each other. Amphibian eggs are small, transparent, and jelly-like. They usually lay these unique eggs clumped together or in long strands. Reptile eggs usually have a leathery exterior that’s more flexible than bird eggs.
Should You Have an Amphibian or Reptile as a Pet?
Many reptiles and amphibians can be kept as pets, but I don’t recommend it for everyone. I have a pet axolotl named Wooper, and he’s a great pet for me, but axolotls aren’t ideal for everyone. Of course, they’re adorable, but you should never get a pet solely because you like how they look.
Most pet reptiles and amphibians are pets that like to keep to themselves. They can be awesome to observe, but most of them don’t like being handled. If you’re looking for a pet you can cuddle and play with, these types of animals aren’t ideal for you.
Every animal species has different care requirements too. So, if there’s an amphibian or reptile you’re interested in, make sure you do your research before bringing them home. Some are okay for beginners while others need lots of space and have complicated care requirements. Always make sure you have the time and money to care for a pet before bringing them home.
Amphibians and reptiles can be great pets for the right people, but it’s important to do your research to ensure they’re right for you. If it’s an uncommon species, make sure to check that it’s legal to own them in your area. (For example, axolotls are illegal as pets in certain areas).
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the Difference Between Mammals vs Reptiles vs Amphibians?
Mammals are very different than reptiles and amphibians. Mammals have hair/fur, are warm-blooded, and have live births. Reptiles have scales and lay eggs on land while amphibians are smooth, moist, and lay eggs in the water.
How Do Amphibians Lay Eggs vs Reptiles?
Amphibians usually lay eggs in the water while reptiles lay them on land. Amphibian eggs are jelly-like and are all attached to each other. The parent may attach the eggs to a plant or rock so they don’t float away.
Can Reptiles Feel Love?
Reptiles don’t seem to show love in the same way dogs and cats do. However, they can display signs of attachment and trust toward their humans. For example, some snakes may bond with their owners and enjoy being pet.
Which Reptiles Give Live Birth?
There are a few reptile species that can give live birth, including the viviparous lizard, blue spiny lizard, and common death adder. Instead of laying eggs, they give birth to live young like humans do.
Can Amphibians Breathe Underwater?
No, most adult amphibians cannot breathe underwater. However, most juvenile amphibians have an aquatic form, allowing them to breathe underwater until they’re full-grown. There are a few adult amphibians that remain aquatic their entire lives, such as axolotls and mudpuppies.
Don’t Mix Up Reptiles and Amphibians
When it comes to amphibians vs reptiles, both types of animals are awesome. Yet, it’s important to acknowledge that they’re different from each other. These creatures have so many unique differences that are fascinating to learn about. So, now if someone asks you what the difference between the two are, you’ll have some fun facts to share.