The debate over whether frogs are reptiles has been going on for years with both sides having valid arguments. Here we will take a look at the evidence for and against frogs being reptiles and let you decide for yourself where you stand on the issue.
For starters it is important to note that frogs and reptiles are both members of the class Amphibia which contains all amphibious creatures. This means that both frogs and reptiles share some characteristics such as having dry skin and being cold-blooded.
With that said there are a number of key differences between frogs and reptiles. For one reptiles are tetrapods meaning they have four legs while frogs are typically tetrapods meaning they have four legs. Additionally reptiles typically have scaly skin while frogs have moist smooth skin.
One of the biggest arguments for frogs being reptiles is that they share a number of similarities with reptiles in terms of their anatomy. For example frogs have a skeletal structure that is very similar to that of reptiles. Additionally frogs and reptiles both have a cloaca which is an exit for both the digestive and urinary systems.
However there are also a number of arguments against frogs being reptiles. For one reptiles are typically ectothermic meaning they rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature while frogs are typically endothermic meaning they generate their own heat. Additionally reptiles typically lay their eggs on land while frogs typically lay their eggs in water.
So where do you stand on the issue? Are frogs reptiles? Or are they something else entirely?
What is the difference between a frog and a reptile?
Frogs are amphibians while reptiles are ectothermic animals that lay shelled eggs.
What are some of the common characteristics of frogs?
Frogs typically have a short body with webbed digits no tail and large protruding eyes.
How many species of frogs are there?
There are approximately 4870 species of frogs.
What is the largest frog in the world?
The largest frog in the world is the Goliath frog which can reach up to 32 cm in length and 3.
3 kg in weight.
What is the smallest frog in the world?
The smallest frog in the world is the Southern dayfrog which only grows to be about 9.
8 mm in length.
What do frogs eat?
Frogs are carnivores and typically eat insects spiders and other small invertebrates.
How do frogs move?
Most frogs hop but some species may also walk run or swim.
What is the skin of a frog like?
Frog skin is typically moist and permeable to gases which helps the animal stay hydrated and regulate its temperature.
What is the lifespan of a frog?
The average lifespan of a frog is about 8 to 10 years but some species may live up to 20 years.
Do all frogs have the ability to climb?
No not all frogs can climb.
Some species such as the cane toad have short stocky legs that make it difficult for them to climb.
What is the primary purpose of a frog’s tongue?
A frog’s tongue is used for catching prey.
The tongue is typically long and sticky which helps the frog to capture and eat its food.
Do frogs have teeth?
No frogs do not have teeth.
Instead they have keratinized beaks that they use to tear their food.
What is the average lifespan of a frog in the wild?
The average lifespan of a frog in the wild is about 3 to 5 years.
What is the average lifespan of a frog in captivity?
The average lifespan of a frog in captivity is about 10 to 20 years.
What is the primary purpose of a frog’s skin?
The primary purpose of a frog’s skin is to absorb water and help the animal stay hydrated.
