What type of eggs do reptiles typically produce?

Reptiles typically produce amniotic eggs, which are a crucial adaptation for terrestrial life. These eggs are encased in a protective shell that prevents desiccation, allowing reptiles to reproduce successfully in dry environments. An amniotic egg consists of several membranes that provide a controlled environment for the developing embryo, including the amnion (which cushions and protects the embryo), the allantois (which handles waste and gas exchange), and the chorion (which facilitates gas exchange with the outer environment).

This type of egg facilitates the retention of water and reduces the risks associated with reproduction away from aquatic habitats, distinguishing reptiles from amphibians, which lay jelly-like eggs that need to remain moist and are typically deposited in water. Additionally, while some reptiles have hard-shelled eggs, the defining feature that encompasses the majority of reptilian eggs is the amniotic structure, which allows for the diversity in egg types among different reptile species. This adaptation has been pivotal in the evolutionary success of reptiles on land.