Do All Amphibians Lay Eggs?

Almost all amphibians lay eggs, but there is one species that gives birth to live young. The Salamandra salamandra, fire salamander, typically gives birth to 10 to 30 young at a time. One of the best-known species of salamanders in Europe, the fire salamander typically is black with either yellow stripes or yellow spots on the back.

More facts about amphibians:

• Amphibians are considered the first vertebrates to have thrived on land and are believed to have been on Earth for hundreds of millions of years. Many scientists believe that amphibians lived as many as 370 million years ago.


• There are more than 5,000 species of amphibians. These are classed into three basic groups: frogs and toads; caecilians, such as snakes; and newts and salamanders.


• The largest known amphibian is the Chinese giant salamander, which can grow to a length of 6 feet (1.83 m). The Chinese giant salamander and the Goliath frog are considered examples of the largest amphibians.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all amphibians lay eggs?

No, not all amphibians lay eggs. While most amphibians do reproduce by laying eggs, there are exceptions. For instance, some species of salamanders give birth to live young, a process known as viviparity. This adaptation is more common in species living in harsh or unpredictable environments where laying eggs might be risky.

How do amphibians typically care for their eggs?

Amphibian parental care varies widely among species. Many frogs leave their eggs to develop independently, while others, like the poison dart frog, exhibit remarkable parental care, with some transporting tadpoles to water bodies on their backs. Certain salamanders guard their eggs, and some caecilians even display maternal body feeding, where the young eat the mother's skin.

Where do amphibians lay their eggs?

Amphibians lay their eggs in diverse environments depending on the species. Many frogs and toads lay eggs in water, which can range from ponds and streams to temporary rain-filled pools. Some lay eggs on land in moist environments, and others, like the red-eyed tree frog, lay eggs on leaves overhanging water, ensuring tadpoles drop into water upon hatching.

Are there amphibians that lay eggs on land?

Yes, there are amphibians that lay eggs on land. These species typically choose moist environments to prevent the eggs from drying out. The eggs of some terrestrial species, like the coastal giant salamander, undergo direct development, where they hatch into miniature versions of the adult, bypassing the tadpole stage entirely.

What adaptations do amphibian eggs have for survival?

Amphibian eggs have several adaptations for survival. Many have a jelly-like coating that provides protection and prevents desiccation. Some species lay eggs in communal clutches to reduce predation risk, while others have evolved camouflaged or toxic eggs. Additionally, the location of egg-laying can be an adaptation, such as high in trees or deep in mud, to avoid predators.

How does temperature affect amphibian egg development?

Temperature plays a crucial role in amphibian egg development. Warmer temperatures generally speed up development, while cooler temperatures slow it down. However, extreme temperatures can be lethal. Amphibians often choose breeding times and locations carefully to ensure optimal temperatures for their eggs. Temperature can also influence the sex of some species, a phenomenon known as temperature-dependent sex determination.