Squamata is the largest order of reptiles, encompassing over 10,000 species of lizards, snakes, and amphisbaenians (worm lizards). Members of Squamata are characterized by their scaled skin (squamates), which they periodically shed, and their highly flexible jaws that allow for diverse feeding strategies. This group exhibits remarkable diversity in form, function, and habitat, ranging from terrestrial and arboreal lizards to fully legless snakes adapted for burrowing or swimming.
- Over 10,000 species in Squamata, including lizards, snakes, and amphisbaenians.
- Distinctive features: scaled skin (squamates), flexible jaws, and skin shedding.
- Occupy diverse habitats: deserts, forests, freshwater, marine, and underground.
All Squamata have scaled skin and flexible jaws.
Amphisbaenians are also part of Squamata.
Squamata is the largest order of reptiles.
Lizards represent a highly diverse group within Squamata, with over 6,000 species spanning a wide range of sizes, shapes, and ecological roles. They typically possess four limbs, external eyelids, and movable jaws, and many can regenerate lost tails. Lizards inhabit nearly every terrestrial environment, from deserts to rainforests, and exhibit varied diets including insects, plants, and small vertebrates.
- Over 6,000 lizard species are classified under Squamata.
- Typical features: four legs, movable eyelids, and tail regeneration.
- Adapted to diverse habitats, from arid deserts to tropical forests.
- Diets range from insectivorous to herbivorous and carnivorous.
Most lizards have four legs and external eyelids.
There are more than 6,000 species of lizards.
Many lizards can regenerate their tails.
Snakes are legless squamates that have evolved elongated, flexible bodies and highly mobile jaws to consume prey much larger than their heads. They lack external ears and eyelids, replacing them with a transparent scale over the eye. Snakes occupy a variety of ecological niches as predators, using venom, constriction, or other methods to subdue prey. They are found on every continent except Antarctica.
- Snakes are limbless reptiles within Squamata, with over 3,000 species.
- Key adaptations: loss of limbs, elongate body, and highly flexible jaw.
- Most lack eyelids and external ears; eyes covered by a transparent scale.
- Found worldwide except Antarctica, in terrestrial and aquatic habitats.
Snakes have unique adaptations like leglessness and flexible jaws.
Snakes use venom or constriction to subdue prey.
Snakes are distinguished by their absence of limbs.
They are legless or have reduced limbs and are adapted for burrowing.
Amphisbaenians share scaled skin and ectothermy with other squamates.
Amphisbaenians are primarily subterranean.
Amphisbaenians, or worm lizards, are a unique group within Squamata characterized by their elongated, cylindrical bodies, reduced or absent limbs, and burrowing lifestyle. They possess specialized skulls for digging and most species are legless, facilitating movement through soil. Amphisbaenians have adapted sensory systems for life underground and are primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions.
- Amphisbaenians are legless or have reduced limbs, adapted for burrowing.
- Their skulls are highly specialized for efficient underground digging.
- They possess unique sensory adaptations suited for subterranean life.
- Found mainly in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
Amphisbaenians are worm-like burrowing squamates.
Amphisbaenians share scaled skin and ectothermy with other squamates.
The order Squamata includes all lizards, snakes, and amphisbaenians, making it the most diverse group of reptiles.
- Squamates are distinguished by their scaled skin and movable jaws.
- Lizards typically have limbs and eyelids, while snakes are legless with unique jaw mechanics.
- Amphisbaenians are specialized, mostly legless burrowers closely related to other squamates.