CVA - LIZARDS

reptiles

ectothermic, which means they get their body heat from external sources

reptiles

They cannot regulate their body temperature

reptiles

cannot chew their food, they can only tear it

reptiles

the longest lived species on the planet

shell

Reptile’s body is covered in scales or they have a bony external plate called .

head

Houses sensory organs (eyes, nostrils, and tympanum) and the brain. It is crucial for feeding and sensory perception

eye

Provides vision to detect prey, predators, and the environment

nostril

Enables breathing and helps detect smells, playing a role in environmental awareness and locating food

tympanum

Allows the lizard to hear by detecting sound vibrations in the environment.

tympanum

highly sensitive, but heads are small (1-2 cm in diameter) compared to the wavelengths of sound of frequencies to which they are most sensitive.

mouth

Used for eating, capturing prey, and occasionally in defense. It contains teeth and a tongue adapted for these purposes

neck

Connects the head to the body, allowing movement and flexibility for better prey capture and predator detection.

mid-dorsal crest of spines

A row of spines running along the back. It can be used for display during territorial or mating behaviors and offers some protection.

trunk

Houses vital organs, including the heart, lungs, and digestive system, and provides structural support.

forelimb

used for climbing, grasping surfaces, and sometimes holding prey. The clawed fingers aid in gripping.

limbs

Hindlimbs are crucial for locomotion, including running and jumping.

limbs

The powerful muscles and claws assist in climbing and digging.

scales

Protect the lizard from physical injury, dehydration, and infections.

scales

They also assist in camouflage and temperature regulation.

scales

Most lizards have dry skin made up of .

tail

Plays multiple roles, including balance during movement, fat storage, and as a defense mechanism.

tail

In many species, the is fragile and can break easily.

tail

It can regenerate, although the new growth may look different.