Lizard Anatomy - Limbs |
| Lizards
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> Anatomy |
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| Different types of lizards
have different body types. This is apparent by just looking
at different species. Whether you lizard is ground dwelling,
lives in trees, or swims, their limbs will all
be different. |
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Terrestrial
/ Ground Dwelling |
| Lizards that live on the ground
have large, heavy feet. Their legs are short and powerfully
built. In many cases, terrestrial lizards dig and bury
into the ground, and their large feet are suited for this
action. |
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| Examples: Frilled
Dragon, Berber
Skink, Blue
Tongue Skink |
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Arboreal /
Tree Dwelling |
| Climbing species have complex,
multi-jointed legs. The bones in their legs are normally
relatively fragile. They require higher amounts of vitamins,
especially calcium, as they develop. Arboreal lizards
have large feet, and large toes with long, curved claws. |
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| Examples:
Veiled
Chameleon, Panther
Chameleon, Green
Anole |
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| Aquatic
/ Water Dwelling |
| Water
dwelling lizards have short but very strong legs, and
webbing in-between their toes, which enables them to swim
quickly and efficiently. The tails of these lizards are
also adapted to assist in swimming. Remember, Aquatic
lizards are actually only semi-aquatic, and live on both
land and in the trees as well. |
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| Examples:
Chinese
Water Dragon |
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| Adaptations
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| Most
Geckos have developed lamellae on their feet. These are
small hooked projections that enable the Gecko to 'stick'
onto most smooth surfaces. |
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