Traits of Reptiles and Amphibians

Reptiles

• Reptiles are vertebrates. They have backbones.
• Their bodies are completely covered with scales.
• They are cold-blooded.
• Reptiles produce shelled eggs or bear live young.
• All species fertilize eggs internally.
• All species of reptiles have at least one lung.

Amphibians

• Amphibians are vertebrates.
• Their skin is smooth and slimy.
• Amphibians breath through their skin, as well as their lungs in some cases.
• Amphibians are cold-blooded.
• They have a complex life cycle (larval and adult stages).
• Many species of amphibians vocalize. One example is the chorus frog.
• Some species fertilize eggs externally, some internally.

This fact sheet was produced by the Outreach Program of the Savannah River Ecology Laboratory.

Last review:  October 12, 2007