Objectives: 1) Explain 4 ways in which a reptile differs
from an amphibian. 2) Describe how oviparous animals
differ from oviviparous animals. 3) List and provide an
example for each of the 4 reptile orders.
http://blogger.xs4all.nl/images/blogger_xs4all_nl/geusoes/22846/r_anaconda.jpg
Reptiles
Characteristics
#1 Endoskeleton: Strong with toes and
claws
#2 Metabolism: Ectothermic depends on
the temperature around them.
Reptile Activity
Morning = Basking
Late morning = Active
Early Afternoon = Rest in Shade
Sunset = Go back to den
#3 Skin: Dry and Watertight
#4 Eggs: Leathery and Amniotic (meaning it
contains water and food for the embryo)
#5 Respiration: Lungs. The lungs have small sacs
called alveoli. They increase the surface area for
respiration.
#6 Heart: 4 chambers
#7 Reproduction: Internal Prevents gametes
from drying out.
Reptiles can be either:
1) Oviparous: Young hatch from eggs. Little
parenting.
2) Ovoviparous: Female keeps eggs inside
body
until after or shortly before
hatching. This reduces the risk of being eaten
by
predators.
http://universe-review.ca/I10-82-circulatory.jpg
Reptile Orders
Lizards: Most are small. Some tails can
fall off.
Snakes:
1) Flexible jaw.
2) Diverse methods of hunting.
3) No pectoral girdle (legless
lizards 4) still have these)
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Poisonous snakes
13 snake families, 4 are venomous
1. Cobras, krits, and coral snakes
2. Sea snakes
3. Adders and Vipers
4. Pit Vipers (Rattlesnakes, water
moccasins, and copperheads)
Pit Vipers have pit organs that can detect infrared
radiation (heat). They also have hollow fangs, a
tapered body, and a Jacobson’s organ in the mouth
used for “smelling” through tasting.
Turtles and Tortoises
* the shell has 2 fused plates, the top
(carapace) and the bottom (plastron).
Crocodilians
* Crocodiles and alligators
* Ambush predators, drown prey
* Some parenting.
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