Vertebrate Phylogeny
Knowledge of vertebrate phylogeny is required in order to appreciate the origins and phylogenetic placement of amphibians and reptiles.
- Amphibians and reptiles belong to the more exclusive vertebrate group Tetrapoda.
- Closest living relatives of tetrapods are aquatic.
- Amphibians are basal tetrapods and represent the sister group to remaining tetrapods (=Amniota).