Information on Reptiles

Reptiles are a diverse group of animals that consist of about 6,500 species. Reptiles have adapted to many climates and habitats, and can be found on every continent, excluding Antarctica.

Types

Four main orders of reptiles exist. Testudines are turtles and tortoises; squamata are snakes and lizards; crocodilia are alligators, crocodiles, caimans and gavials; and sphenodontia consists of two species of tuatara.

History

Reptiles are the class of animals that have been on the Earth the longest, some 300 million years. During this time, reptiles have changed quite a bit in size, but many remain physiologically similar to their ancestors.

Features

All reptiles share certain features that distinguish them from other animals. Reptiles are vertebrates, exothermic ("cold-blooded"), and have bodies covered with scales or scutes.

Size

Reptiles have a wide range of sizes, from saltwater crocodiles that can grow up to 17 feet long to the dwarf gecko that barely reaches half an inch in length. Within each order, there is a large amount of variation in size.

Fun Fact

A common misconception about reptiles is that they are slimy. In fact reptiles' scaly skin makes them feel dry to the touch.

References

• Reptiles
• Facts About Reptiles
• Reptilia Information