Adaptations of Reptiles

The classification of reptiles includes lizards, snakes and turtles. Reptiles have many life-sustaining adaptations such as scales, the ability to unhinge their jaws, their utilization of color and their ability to regenerate limbs.

  1. Scales

    • All reptiles have scales. The scales provide thick skin for warmth and to minimize water loss so these cold-blooded creatures can bask in the sunlight. The “shell” of a turtle is made of hardened scales.

    Jaws

    • Reptiles have multiple bones that comprise their jaws. Snakes and occasionally all other reptiles will unhinge their jaws to capture or consume prey.

    Coloring

    • Various colors of scales offer a variety of benefits: black scales absorb more heats and the bright throat fans (dewlaps) of many lizards are used for attracting mates and intimidating foes. Many lizards have coloring to blend in with their environment. Chameleons can change their color as needed.

    Regeneration

    • Most lizards are able to release and regrow their tails to survive encounters with predators. After the tail is released, it will writhe for a few minutes to provide a distraction so the reptile can escape.

    Individual Species

    • Many reptiles have species-specific adaptations, such as the fringe-toed lizards that use their toe fringe for traction on sand dunes. Desert tortoises have larger bladders for water storage.