Reptilia

Reptilia (also known as reptiles) are a group of cold-blooded vertebrates that includes crocodiles, lizards, snakes, turtles, and tuatara. They are characterized by their dry scaly skin and their ability to lay hard-shelled eggs on land.

Characteristics

Reptiles are known for their distinctive characteristics. They are tetrapods (four-legged vertebrates) and amniotes, animals whose embryos are surrounded by an amniotic membrane. They are also known for their dry, scaly skin and their ability to lay hard-shelled eggs on land.

Classification

The classification of reptiles has been a subject of debate among scientists. The traditional classification of reptiles includes four orders: Crocodilia (crocodiles, gavials, caimans, and alligators), Squamata (lizards, snakes, and worm lizards), Testudines (turtles), and Rhynchocephalia (the tuatara from New Zealand).

Evolution

Reptiles first appeared in the fossil record about 312 million years ago and were the dominant animals during the Mesozoic era, which is often called the "Age of Reptiles".

Conservation

Many species of reptiles are currently threatened with extinction due to human activities. Conservation efforts are being made to protect these species and their habitats.

See also

• List of reptiles
• Herpetology

External links

• The Reptile Database

Reptilia Resources
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