Amphibians & Reptiles

Question 1

Why are lizards classified with birds and mammals as amniotes?

Answer 1

The amniotes are the evolutionary branch of the tetrapods in which the embryo develops within a set of protective extra-embryonic membranes—the amnion, chorion, and allantois.

Question 2

What are the key characteristics of amphibians and reptiles?

Answer 2

Amphibians :
skin without epidermal structures
eggs lack shells
lungs and skin used in gas exchange

Reptiles:
eggs, yolky, waterproof, with amnion & allantois
internal fertilization
Often covered with scales
Capable of continued growth

Question 3

List reasons why amphibians are more closely related to fish than to reptiles.

Answer 3

Fish like feet
nares
structure in the pelvic girdle, the pelvic and pectoral appendage

Question 4

What is meant by metamorphosis and how is it manifested in the development of frogs?

Answer 4

Eggs –> tadpole –> adult frog

Question 5

What are the key factors endangering the persistence of many frog species?

Answer 5

Climate change