Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
While reptile scales use a sophisticated naming system (see figures), there has been a certain confusion because of synonymous names. For instance, the ventral scales are often called ventrals but gastrosteges is common in the older literature. In more recent publications they are often abbreviated as VSR (for ventral scale rows) or simply V. [4]
Rainbow boas get their name from the coloration of their scales caused by iridescence. The ventral (or belly) scales, which are large and oblong, are especially low-friction, and some arboreal species can use the edges to grip branches. Snake skin and scales help retain moisture in the animal's body. [3]
Most snakes have extra broad scales on the belly, each scale covering the belly from side to side. The scales of all reptiles have an epidermal component (what one sees on the surface), but many reptiles, such as crocodilians and turtles, have osteoderms underlying the epidermal scale.
Scale and skin orientation accomplish this, as it has been demonstrated by studies of the nanostructures on their scales. Specifically, the inner alpha-layer contains alpha-keratins which serve as cytoskeletal proteins for a mechanical form of resistance against traction. [4] [7] [5] Additionally, to reduce friction some snakes polish their ...
The skin is tough and leathery, and is shed (sloughed) as the animal grows. Unlike snakes which shed the skin in a single piece, lizards slough their skin in several pieces. The scales may be modified into spines for display or protection, and some species have bone osteoderms underneath the scales. [6] [7]
A video shared online shows the scale of these 20-foot-long (6.1-meter-long) reptiles as one of the researchers, Dutch biologist Freek Vonk, swims alongside a giant 200-kilo (441-pound) specimen.
The wee anole relies mostly on camouflage to hide from predators such as birds, snakes, mammals and other lizards. And when camouflage fails, waiting out a threat underwater is an effective ...
This is an accepted version of this page This is the latest accepted revision, reviewed on 11 January 2025. Group of animals including lepidosaurs, testudines, and archosaurs This article is about the animal class. For other uses, see Reptile (disambiguation). Reptiles Temporal range: Late Carboniferous–Present PreꞒ Ꞓ O S D C P T J K Pg N Tuatara Saltwater crocodile Common box turtle ...