Short answer
Amphibians such as frogs and salamanders usually have permeable skin and often a water-associated juvenile stage. Reptiles such as snakes, lizards and turtles have skin protected by scales or plates and use different reproductive strategies. A salamander may look like a lizard, but it is an amphibian. 1 2
Both are ectothermic vertebrates, but skin, reproduction and evolutionary grouping distinguish them.
On this page
At a glance
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| Question | Amphibian | Reptile |
|---|---|---|
| Typical skin | Moist and permeable | Scaly or plated, limiting water loss |
| Common examples | Frog, toad, salamander | Snake, lizard, turtle |
| Development | Often aquatic larva and metamorphosis | No amphibian-style tadpole stage |
The table summarizes the cited definitions and the article’s stated scope. 1 2
What each thing is
Amphibian. A member of the vertebrate group including frogs, salamanders and caecilians, generally with permeable skin. 1
Reptile. A member of the vertebrate group conventionally including turtles, snakes, lizards and crocodilians, typically with scaly skin. 2
Key differences
Skin and life history are stronger broad clues than whether an animal is found near water. Amphibians can exchange gases through skin, which makes moisture important. Reptile lineages use lung breathing and skin structures that reduce water loss. 1 2
How to tell them apart
For a lizard-shaped animal, look for scales and claws versus smooth, glandular skin. A salamander is an amphibian; a skink is a reptile. Use an identification guide for the species rather than handling wildlife to test texture. 1 2
Where they overlap
Both are vertebrates that rely heavily on external heat sources. Both groups include species that live in or near water, and both can lay eggs. 1 2
Edge cases
Not all amphibians undergo a conspicuous tadpole-to-adult change, and not all reptiles lay eggs; some give live birth. Modern evolutionary classification can treat birds within the reptile lineage, while everyday reptile usage commonly excludes birds. 1 2
Why the distinction exists
The names track distinct evolutionary histories and biological adaptations, especially ways bodies manage water and development. 1 2
Common misconceptions
“Lives in water” does not mean amphibian. Turtles are reptiles, and many frogs spend substantial adult time on land. 1 2
Examples
A smooth-skinned salamander by a stream is an amphibian. A scaled lizard on a nearby rock is a reptile. 1 2
Sources
Sources checked October 3, 2026.
- National Park Service — Reptiles and Amphibians: Life History. Life history.
- National Park Service — Reptiles and Amphibians. Reptiles; Amphibians.