Vertebrates include fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. What are the characteristics of reptiles? What are the characteristics of mammals? What are some differences between reptiles and mammals?

Answer 1

Reptiles:
- Reptiles are cold-blooded, meaning they rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature.
- They have scales or scutes covering their bodies.
- Most reptiles lay eggs, although some give birth to live young.
- They have lungs for breathing.
- Reptiles have a three-chambered heart.

Mammals:
- Mammals are warm-blooded, meaning they can regulate their own body temperature internally.
- They have hair or fur covering their bodies.
- Most mammals give birth to live young, although there are a few exceptions that lay eggs (monotremes).
- They have lungs for breathing.
- Mammals have a four-chambered heart.

Differences between reptiles and mammals:
- Body temperature regulation: Reptiles are cold-blooded, while mammals are warm-blooded.
- Reproduction: Most reptiles lay eggs, while most mammals give birth to live young.
- Covering: Reptiles have scales or scutes, while mammals have hair or fur.
- Heart structure: Reptiles have a three-chambered heart, while mammals have a four-chambered heart.