Characteristics of Reptilia
A few of the important characteristics of Reptilia are:
- They have a 3 chambered heart except crocodiles. Crocodiles have a 4 chambered heart.
- They are oviparous and development is direct. The eggs are yolky and soft-shelled.
- They have 12 pairs of cranial nerves in their nervous system.
- Internal fertilization.
- No external ear opening.
- They are uricotelic and excrete nitrogenous waste in the form of uric acid.
- They have scales on their bodies. Few of the reptiles shed scales. Scales have Beta keratin.
- They are ectotherms meaning heat is absorbed from the environment.
- They are burrowing terrestrial animals.
- They are cold-blooded animals.
- They use lungs for respiration.
- They are found in warmer regions of the world.
- They have dry and rough skin without the presence of glands.
- The body is divided into four parts i.e, head, neck, trunk and tail.
- Examples are turtles, lizards, snakes and crocodiles.
- They are tetrapods.
Also Read: What is Nervous System?
Reptilia: Definition, Characteristics, Classification, and Example
Reptilia is a group of vertebrates that includes animals such as lizards, alligators, tortoises, turtles, crocodiles, and snakes. Animals of the class Reptilia are known as Reptiles. Reptilia can be found in various regions such as forests, deserts, freshwater, wetlands, and mangroves. They are cold-blooded animals and their skin is covered with scales.
The Mesozoic Era was the “Golden Age of Reptiles.” The study of snakes is known as Serpentology or Ophiology. They are mostly terrestrial and tetrapods. Reptilia is divided into anapsida, parapsida and diapsida. Reptilia has both ecological and economic importance.
Table of Content
- What is Reptilia?
- Characteristics of Reptilia
- Examples of Reptilia
- Classification of Class Reptilia
- Groups of Reptiles
- Extinct Groups of Reptilia
- Importance of Reptilia
- Ecological Significance of Reptilia
- Difference between Amphibia and Reptilia
- Conservation Challenges for Reptiles
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