10 Surprising Animal Pairs You Didn’t Realize Are Close Relatives

8. Frogs and Salamanders: Amphibian Allies

Frogs and salamanders, with their moist skin and life cycles that often involve water, are both members of the class Amphibia. This group represents one of the earliest branches of vertebrate evolution, with a lineage that dates back over 350 million years. Despite their shared ancestry, frogs and salamanders have evolved distinct forms and behaviors—frogs are known for their powerful jumping abilities and vocalizations, while salamanders often have elongated bodies and tails. Their differences reflect the diverse habitats they occupy and the adaptations that have allowed them to thrive in various environments. The frog-salamander kinship is a testament to the evolutionary history of amphibians, a group that bridges the gap between aquatic and terrestrial life.