An amniote is a type of vertebrate animal that develops an amniotic egg, which allows it to reproduce on land. This group includes reptiles, birds, and mammals. The amniotic egg contains a protective membrane that surrounds the embryo, providing a stable environment for development and preventing desiccation. Amniotes are distinguished from other vertebrates, such as amphibians, which typically require water for reproduction. The evolution of the amniotic egg was a significant adaptation that enabled these animals to thrive in diverse terrestrial habitats, leading to the wide variety of species we see today, including dinosaurs, eagles, and humans.