These things are what makes an animal an amphibian
Metamorphosis (The Big Change)
Most amphibians start their lives in the water as eggs and hatch into larvae, like tadpoles. These young amphibians have gills to breathe underwater. As they grow, they undergo metamorphosis, where they develop lungs and legs to live on land as adults.
Permeable, Scaleless Skin
Unlike reptiles which have tough scales, amphibians have thin, soft, and moist skin. Their skin is permeable, meaning water and oxygen can pass right through it. Many amphibians actually use their skin to breathe, absorbing oxygen directly from the air or water.
Cold-Blooded (Ectothermic)
Amphibians are ectotherms, which means they cannot produce their own body heat. Their body temperature changes based on their environment. To stay warm, they might bask in the sun; to cool down, they seek out shade or damp burrows.
Gelatinous Eggs
Amphibian eggs are soft and jelly-like, lacking the hard shells found in bird or reptile eggs. Because they don't have a protective shell to keep moisture in, most amphibians must lay their eggs in water or very damp places so they don't dry out.
Vertebrates with a Backbone
Even though they may feel squishy, all amphibians are vertebrates. They have an internal skeleton and a backbone that supports their body and protects their spinal cord.
Common Groups of Amphibians
Frogs and Toads: Known for their powerful jumping legs and lack of tails as adults.
Salamanders and Newts: Long-bodied animals that keep their tails throughout their lives.
Caecilians: Rare, legless amphibians that look similar to large worms or snakes.
