What is the difference between a lizard and a salamander?

Their general body shape is similar, but other than that they are very different. The main difference is that the lizard is a reptile and the salamander is an amphibian. Lizards, as with most reptiles, generally reproduce and live their entire lives on land. However, amphibians must reproduce and spend a period of time growing in water before eventually moving onto land. Lizards also have dry, scaly skin while salamanders have moist, smooth skin.