Amphibian and Reptile Museum

Author: Li Xiangtao
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2006-01-01
Features: Amphibians are classified under the phylum Chordata, subphylum Vertebrata, and class Amphibia. There are three major orders of living amphibians: the order Anura (frogs and toads), the order Caudata (salamanders and newts), and the order Gymnophiona (caecilians). There are approximately 3,000 species worldwide, with about 295 species in China. The body shapes of amphibians vary, which is related to their respective living habits and modes of activity. They are found in various ecological environments, including plains, hills, high mountains, and plateaus, with vertical distribution reaching as high as about 5,000 meters. Some species can tolerate slightly alkaline water. They are most abundant in tropical and subtropical regions of Central and South America, Africa (excluding deserts), and Southeast Asia, while species in the temperate zones decrease gradually, with only a few species reaching as far as the southern edge of the Arctic Circle.
Reptiles are classified under the phylum Chordata, subphylum Vertebrata, and class Reptilia. There are five living orders of reptiles: Testudines (turtles and tortoises), Sphenodontia (tuatara), Squamata (lizards and snakes), Crocodilia (crocodiles and alligators), and Chelonia (sea turtles). There are approximately 6,000 species worldwide, with about 397 species in China. Their morphological differences are significant, and their distribution ranges cover various terrestrial habitats and the oceans worldwide, particularly rich in tropical and temperate regions. However, as they cannot regulate their body temperature internally, they must adapt to environmental temperature changes and struggle to survive in cold climates, resulting in fewer species in extremely cold regions.
Amphibians and most reptiles primarily feed on various insects and other small animals. This not only benefits agricultural and livestock production but also plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.