Reptiles are ectothermic with scales and lay eggs, while mammals are endothermic, give birth to live young, and have hair or fur. These differences reflect varying reproductive methods, thermoregulation, and integumentary adaptations between reptiles and mammals.
Reptiles typically rely on external sources of heat, such as the sun, to regulate their body temperature, while mammals generate their own body heat internally. This difference in thermoregulation affects other aspects of their physiology and behavior, such as metabolism and activity levels.
Additionally, the presence of scales in reptiles provides protection from predators and helps reduce water loss, while the hair or fur of mammals serves as insulation to regulate body temperature and provide sensory information. These integumentary adaptations are essential for survival in their respective environments.
Reproduction is another key difference between reptiles and mammals. Most reptiles lay eggs, which are typically laid in a nest and left to develop independently, while mammals give birth to live young that are cared for by the mother. This difference in reproductive strategy affects parental care, development, and survival rates of offspring.
Overall, the differences between reptiles and mammals in terms of thermoregulation, integumentary adaptations, and reproductive methods reflect their respective evolutionary histories and adaptations to different ecological niches. While both reptiles and mammals are diverse groups with unique characteristics, these fundamental differences help to distinguish these two classes of animals.