Reptiles

Key Notes :

Definition of Reptiles:

• Reptiles are cold-blooded animals that have scales or scutes (bony plates) on their bodies.
• They are vertebrates, which means they have a backbone.

Types of Reptiles:

• Reptiles include animals like snakes, lizards, turtles, alligators, and crocodiles.

Characteristics of Reptiles:

• Cold-blooded: Reptiles depend on their environment to regulate their body temperature.
• Dry, scaly skin: Their skin helps prevent water loss, which allows them to live in dry areas.
• Lungs for breathing: All reptiles breathe air through lungs, even aquatic reptiles like turtles.
• Egg-laying: Most reptiles lay eggs, but some, like certain snakes, give birth to live young.

Habitat:

• Reptiles live in a variety of habitats such as deserts, forests, wetlands, and even oceans.
• They can be found on every continent except Antarctica.

Movement:

• Reptiles move in different ways: snakes slither, lizards crawl, and turtles walk slowly or swim.

Diet:

• Most reptiles are carnivorous, eating meat (such as insects or small animals).
• Some reptiles, like certain turtles, are herbivores, eating plants.

Importance in the Ecosystem:

• Reptiles play a crucial role in ecosystems by controlling the population of prey animals like insects and rodents.

Fun Facts:

• The largest reptile is the saltwater crocodile, while the smallest is the tiny gecko.
• Some reptiles, like chameleons, can change color to blend into their surroundings.

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