What animals are reptiles list. Class Reptiles or Reptiles

The class of vertebrates that occupy an intermediate position between amphibians and mammals is called reptiles. They are more similar to birds. The following animals belong to this class according to the list:

• crocodiles;
• turtles;
• snakes;
• lizards;
• dinosaurs (fossil form of animals of the Mesozoic era).

General characteristics of reptiles

Like amphibians, reptiles are cold-blooded creatures. In other words, their body temperature is determined by their surroundings. To some extent, reptiles are able to regulate their temperature by covering themselves against hypothermia. For example, in winter time During the year, animals hibernate, and during periods of extreme heat, they begin to hunt at night.

Reptiles have tough skin covered with scales. The main task of which is to protect the body from drying out. For example, in turtles the upper protection is provided strong shell , crocodiles have hard plates of bone origin on their head and back.

Reptiles breathe only through the lungs. In some animal species, the lungs are the same size and equally developed, while in others, such as snakes and lizards, the right lung is larger and is located throughout the body cavity. Turtles have fixed ribs due to their shell, so the ventilation of the body is organized in a different way. Air enters the lungs during rocking movements of the front legs or during intense swallowing.

The bony skeleton of reptiles is quite well developed. The number and shape of ribs depends on the specific species, but all representatives of the class have them. Almost all turtles have fused bony plates of the shell and spine. Snakes have ribs designed for active crawling. In lizards, the ribs serve to support fan-shaped membranes for gliding in the air.

Most reptiles have a short tongue that cannot protrude. Snakes and lizards have a long tongue, divided in two, which can extend far from the mouth. For this species of animal these are the most important sense organs.

To protect themselves from the environment, small reptiles have original coloring. Turtles are reliably protected by a dense shell. Some snakes are poisonous.

In terms of reproductive organs, reptiles are similar to birds. As a rule, reptiles are oviparous animals. But in some species, eggs remain inside in the oviduct until hatching. This type includes some species of lizards and vipers.

Classification of reptiles and their distribution

Modern reptiles are divided into four groups:

• turtles (about 300 species);
• crocodiles (25 species);
• scaly (about 5,500 species of lizards and snakes);
• tuatara (tuatara).

The last order belongs to the only representative of beaked animals among reptiles.

Reptiles distributed throughout the world. Largest number seen in warm areas. In regions with a cold climate and a lack of woody vegetation, reptiles are practically not found. Representatives of this class live on land, in water (fresh and salty) and in the air.

Ancient reptile fossils

Reptiles have been known since the Carboniferous period. They reached their largest sizes in the Permian and Triassic periods. At the same time, there was an increased reproduction of animals that populated more and more new territories. IN Mesozoic era the dominance of reptiles was overwhelming, both on land and in water. It is not for nothing that this period was called the Age of Reptiles.

Turtles

One of the most famous species of reptiles are turtles. There are both marine and land representatives of animals. The species is distributed throughout the world. Animals are also allowed keep at home. The most ancient representatives of turtles were discovered 200 million years ago. Scientists believe that they descended from a primitive species of cotylosaurs. Turtles are practically harmless animals, they are not dangerous to people.

Animals of this species have a shell of a bone structure. On the outside, it is formed by numerous individual elements of horny tissue, which are connected by plates. For breathing land turtles The lungs function well. Aquatic representatives of the class breathe using the mucous membrane of the pharynx. main feature these animals have longevity. Average age Turtles have a longer lifespan than any other reptile.

Crocodiles

Animals are one of the most dangerous species of reptiles. The origin of crocodiles is associated with ancient reptiles, the size of which exceeded 15 meters in length. Scientists have been able to find the remains of ancient crocodiles on all continents of the globe. Modern representatives of this class have more conventional sizes. But among reptiles they still remain the largest species.

Almost all the time crocodiles are in the water. Only the ears, nose and eyes of the animal appear on the surface. Crocodiles swim with the help of webbed tails and paws. But at great depths, only single representatives of the class can exist - the comb species. Crocodiles' nests are located on land. In some cases, they also crawl out of the water to warm themselves.

Reptiles have a strong, powerful tail and are also characterized by high speed of movement on land. Therefore, crocodiles are extremely dangerous to humans. A sudden sudden burst can take people by surprise. Alligators are considered the most dangerous representatives of crocodiles.

Chameleons

This type of lizard is known to almost everyone. Reptiles are known for their unique coloration, which serves as a camouflage feature. An animal's skin can change color depending on environmental conditions. Chameleons live in trees. Some people keep these cute creatures at home.

Reptiles are quite finicky to care for. They need a spacious terrarium, which is equipped with special lamps. You will need wood, a small pond, heated floors and excellent ventilation. Chameleons feed on insects. Therefore, the owners will also have to take care of their availability.

Iguanas

Currently, there are more and more lovers of pets - iguanas. This representative of lizards also requires special care. Iguanas must be kept in a special terrarium that can maintain a certain temperature regime. For food, domestic iguanas prefer fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as greens. With good care and optimal living conditions, lizards at home can grow quite large. Maximum iguana weight - 5 kg. It is difficult to keep such a pet at home; it will require a large financial investment, as well as significant labor costs.

Iguanas are one of those rare species reptiles that molt. Most reptiles experience this period in two days, but in iguanas it lasts for several weeks.

Monitor lizards

There are about 70 species of monitor lizards. They live in different territories. The size of the animals is very impressive. Short-tailed monitor lizards have a length of about 20 cm, while other representatives have a much longer length (about 1 meter). The largest monitor lizards are the Komodo species. Their dimensions reach three meters in length, and their weight is 1500 kg. It’s not for nothing that such animals are called modern dinosaurs.

Monitor lizards are covered with large scales. They have strong paws with a tenacious grip and powerful a long tail . The animal's tongue is also large in size; at the end it is divided in half. Lizards can only smell with their tongue. The color of animals is dominated by gray and brown shades. Young representatives of the class are often found with spotted or striped scales. Monitor lizards live in regions with warm climates. They are most common in Australia, Africa and southern Asia. Depending on their habitat, monitor lizards are divided into two types. The first of them lives in a desert area with dry trees and shrubs. And the second is located closer to tropical forests and reservoirs. Some representatives of monitor lizards live on tree branches.

Geckos

Unique representatives of reptiles that are able to stick to any surface, even the smoothest. Geckos can climb smooth glass walls, hang from ceilings, and many other interesting things. The lizard is able to stay on the surface with just one paw.

Snakes

This famous representatives reptiles. The main difference from other species is the body shape. Snakes have a long body, but do not have paired limbs, eyelids or an external auditory canal. Some of these characteristics are present in individual species lizards, but all together such signs are observed only in snakes.

Zmeinoye the body consists of three elements:

• head;
• body;
• tail.

Some representatives retained rudimentary forms of limbs. A large number of snake species are venomous. They have grooved or channeled teeth that contain venom. This dangerous liquid comes from the animal's salivary glands. All internal organs of a snake differ from standard indicators. They have an oblong shape. Animals do not have a bladder. There is before our eyes cornea, which was formed from fused eyelids. The snakes that lead daytime look life, have a transverse pupil, and night snakes are characterized by a vertical pupil. Because Since animals do not have an auditory canal, they can only hear loud sounds.

Snakes

These are representatives of one of the varieties of snakes. Their main feature is that they are not poisonous. Snakes have bright scales with a large ribbed surface. Animals are common near water bodies. Amphibians and fish serve as food for them. Sometimes snakes manage to catch a bird or small mammal. Such snakes do not kill their prey; they swallow it whole.

If the snake senses danger, it pretends to be dead. And when attacked, a liquid with an extremely unpleasant odor is released from the mouth. Snakes breed on plant soils covered with damp moss or natural debris.

The list of modern reptiles can be continued for a very long time. All representatives of the class have certain similarities characteristic of this type of animal, as well as clear differences. Such animals are of great interest to scientists and hobbyists from all over the world. Their unique features can tell a lot.

Scales on the skin of a lizard

The girdle of the forelimbs is similar to the girdle of amphibians, differing only in the stronger development of ossification. The forelimb of reptiles consists of the shoulder, forearm and hand. Posterior - from the thigh, lower leg and foot. Claws are located on the phalanges of the limbs.

Muscular system

The brain is located inside the skull. A number of important features distinguish the brain of reptiles from the brain of amphibians. They often talk about the so-called sauropsid type of brain, which is also inherent in birds, in contrast to the ichthyopsid type in fish and amphibians.

There are five sections of the reptile brain.

• The forebrain consists of two cerebral hemispheres, from which the olfactory lobes extend. The surface of the cerebral hemispheres is absolutely smooth. In the medullary vault of the hemispheres, a primary vault is distinguished - the archipallium, which occupies most the roofs of the hemispheres, and the rudiments of the neopallium. The floor of the forebrain mainly consists of the striatum.
• The diencephalon is located between the forebrain and midbrain. The parietal organ is located in its upper part, and the pituitary gland is located on the lower side. The bottom of the diencephalon is occupied by the optic nerves and their chiasm.
• The midbrain is represented by two large anterior hills - the optic lobes, as well as small posterior hills. The visual cortex is more developed than in amphibians.
• The cerebellum covers the anterior part of the medulla oblongata. It is larger compared to the cerebellum of amphibians.
• The medulla oblongata forms a bend in the vertical plane, which is characteristic of all amniotes.

12 pairs of cranial nerves arise from the brain. In the spinal cord, the division into white and gray matter is more distinct than in amphibians. Segmental spinal nerves arise from the spinal cord to form the typical brachial and pelvic plexus. The autonomic nervous system (sympathetic and parasympathetic) is clearly expressed in the form of a chain of paired nerve ganglia.

Sense organs

Reptiles have five main sense organs:

• The organ of vision, the eyes, are more complex than those of frogs: the sclera contains a ring of thin bone plates; a ridge extends from the back wall of the eyeball, protruding into the vitreous body; in the ciliary body, striated muscles are developed, which allows not only to move the lens, but also to change its shape, thus achieving focus during the process of accommodation. The organs of vision have adaptations to work air environment. The lacrimal glands protect the eye from drying out. The outer eyelids and nictitating membrane perform a protective function. In snakes and some lizards, the eyelids fuse to form a transparent membrane. The retina of the eye can contain both rods and cones. Nocturnal species have no cones. In most diurnal species, the range of color vision is shifted to the yellow-orange part of the spectrum. Vision is crucial among the sense organs of reptiles.
• The olfactory organ is represented by the internal nostrils - choanae and the vomeronasal organ. Compared to the structure of amphibians, the choanae are located closer to the pharynx, which makes it possible to breathe freely while food is in the mouth. The sense of smell is better developed than that of amphibians, allowing many lizards to find food located under the surface of the sand at a depth of 6-8 cm.
• The organ of taste is the taste buds, located mainly in the pharynx.
• The thermal sensory organ is located on the facial fossa between the eye and nose on each side of the head. Especially developed in snakes. In pit snakes, thermolocators can even determine the direction of the source of thermal radiation.
• The organ of hearing is close to the organ of hearing of frogs; it contains the inner and middle ear, equipped with a tympanic membrane, an auditory ossicle - the stirrup, and an eustachian tube. The role of hearing in the life of reptiles is relatively small; the hearing is especially weak in snakes, which do not have an eardrum and perceive vibrations traveling along the ground or in water. Reptiles perceive sounds in the range of 20-6000 Hz, although most hear well only in the range of 60-200 Hz (for crocodiles 100-3000 Hz).
• The sense of touch is clearly expressed, especially in turtles, which can feel even a light touch on the shell.

Respiratory system

Reptiles are characterized by suction-type breathing by expanding and contracting the chest with the help of intercostal and abdominal muscles. The air entering through the larynx enters the trachea - a long breathing tube, which at the end is divided into bronchi leading to the lungs. Like amphibians, the lungs of reptiles have a sac-like structure, although their internal structure is much more complex. The inner walls of the lung sacs have a folded cellular structure, which significantly increases the respiratory surface.

Since the body is covered with scales, reptiles do not have cutaneous respiration, and the lungs are the only respiratory organ.

Circulatory system

Circulatory system of reptiles

Like amphibians, most reptiles have a three-chambered heart, consisting of one ventricle and two atria. The ventricle is divided by an incomplete septum into two halves: upper and lower. With this design of the heart, a gradient (difference) in the amount of blood oxygen is established in the slit-like space around the incomplete ventricular septum. After the atria contract, arterial blood from the left atrium enters the upper half of the ventricle and displaces venous blood from the right ventricle into the lower half. Mixed blood appears in the right side of the ventricle. When the ventricle contracts, each portion of blood rushes to the nearest hole: arterial blood from the upper half - into the right aortic arch, venous blood from the lower half - into the pulmonary artery, and mixed blood from the right part of the ventricle - into the left aortic arch. Since it is the right aortic arch that carries blood to the brain, the brain receives the most oxygen-rich blood. In crocodiles, the septum completely divides the ventricle into two halves: the right - venous and the left - arterial, thus forming a four-chambered heart, almost like in mammals and birds

In contrast to the common arterial trunk of amphibians, reptiles have three independent vessels: the pulmonary artery, and the right and left aortic arches. Each aortic arch bends back around the esophagus, and when they meet each other, they unite to form the unpaired dorsal aorta. The dorsal aorta stretches back, sending arteries along the way to all organs. From the right arch of the aorta, extending from the left arterial ventricle, the right and left carotid arteries branch off with a common trunk, and both subclavian arteries, carrying blood to the forelimbs, branch off from the right arch.

A complete division into two independent circles of blood circulation in reptiles (including crocodiles) does not occur, since venous and arterial blood mix in the dorsal aorta.

Like fish and amphibians, all reptiles are cold-blooded animals.

Digestive system

Due to the variety of food available for nutrition, the digestive tract of reptiles is much more differentiated than that of amphibians.

Excretory system

The kidneys of reptiles differ significantly from the kidneys of fish and amphibians, which have to solve the problem of getting rid of a constant excess of water in the body. Instead of the trunk kidneys of amphibians (mesonephros), the kidneys of reptiles (metanephros) are located in the pelvic region on the ventral side of the cloaca and on its sides. The kidneys are connected to the cloaca through the ureters.

The thin-walled, stalk-shaped bladder is connected to the cloaca by a thin neck on its ventral side. In some reptiles the bladder is underdeveloped (crocodiles, snakes, some lizards).

Reproductive system

Reptiles are dioecious animals.

Male reproductive system consists of a pair of testes that are located on the sides lumbar region spine. A seminal canal extends from each testis, which flows into the Wolffian canal. With the appearance of the trunk bud in wolf reptiles, the canal in males acts only as a vas deferens and is completely absent in females. The Wolffian canal opens into the cloaca, forming the seminal vesicle.

Female reproductive system represented by ovaries, which are suspended on the mesentery to the dorsal side of the body cavity on the sides of the spine. The oviducts (Müllerian canals) are also suspended on the mesentery. The oviducts open into the anterior part of the body cavity with slit-like openings - funnels. The lower end of the oviduct opens into the lower part of the cloaca on its dorsal side.

Lifestyle

Development

Fertilization is internal.

Nutrition

Most reptiles are carnivores. Some (for example, agamas, iguanas) are characterized by a mixed diet. There are also almost exclusively herbivorous reptiles (land turtles).

Economic importance

The importance of reptiles for humans is relatively small. Crocodile skin, large snakes and lizards are used in the leather industry to make suitcases, belts, shoes, etc., however, these items are of an exclusive nature, being a luxury item. The meat of some turtles and eggs are eaten. Snake venom is used in medicine. Many snakes are useful in exterminating rodents, and lizards are useful in exterminating insects. Some species of reptiles are kept as pets.

Great danger represent for people Poisonous snakes, especially in tropical countries. Large crocodiles are dangerous to humans and cause damage to livestock. Many turtles harm fisheries.

Origin of reptiles

The first representatives of reptiles - cotylosaurs - have been known since the Middle Carboniferous. By the end of the period, animal-like reptiles appeared, which in the Permian period settled almost throughout the entire land, becoming the dominant group among reptiles. In the Mesozoic era, reptiles flourished, and the greatest diversity was observed among the representatives. The development of sea and river reservoirs, as well as air space, is taking place. In the Mesozoic, all groups of reptiles formed. The last group - snakes - formed during the Cretaceous period.

At the end Cretaceous period There is a sharp reduction in the number of reptile species. Modern science cannot yet clearly indicate the causes of extinction.

Classification

There is a lot of uncertainty in the classification of reptiles, largely because most of them are extinct. Below is one of the possible options.

• Subclass Anapsida ( Anapsida)
  • Turtles ( Testudines or Chelonia)
  • †Cotylosaurus ( Cotylosauria)
  • †Seymuriomorpha ( Seymouriomorpha)
• Subclass Proganosaurus ( Proganosauria)
  • † Mesosaurs ( Mesosauria)
• Subclass Ichthyopterygia ( Ichtyopterygia)
  • †Ichthyosaurs ( Ichthyosauria)
• Subclass Synaptosaurus ( Synaptosauria or Euryapsida)
  • †Protorosaurus ( Protorosauria)
  • †Sauropterygia ( Sauropterygia)
• Subclass Lepidosaurs or scaly lizards ( Lepidosauria)
  • †Eosuchia ( Eosuchia)
  • Beakheads or proboscis ( Rhynchocephalia)
  • Scaly ( Squamata): lizards and snakes
• Subclass Archosaurs ( Archosauria)
  • †Thecodonts ( Thecodontia) - became extinct, giving rise to other representatives of this subclass and, possibly, birds
  • Crocodiles ( Crocodylia or Crocodilia)
  • †Pterosaurs or flying lizards ( Pterosauria): pterodactyls, etc.
  • †Saurischian dinosaurs ( Saurichia) - extinct, perhaps gave rise to birds
  • †Ornithischian dinosaurs ( Ornithischia)
• Subclass Animalia, or synapsids, or theromorphs ( Synapsida or Theromorpha) - became extinct, but gave rise to mammals.
  • † Pelycosaurus ( Pelycosauria)
  • †Therapsids ( Therapsida)

Reptiles – what kind of animals are they? They belong to the class of vertebrates, occupying a place between amphibians and mammals. We also call them reptiles. Reptiles are a list of names below:

— dinosaurs (fossil form);
- lizards;
- turtles;
- snakes;
- crocodiles.

Lifestyle

Reptiles adapt to the ambient temperature, being cold-blooded. In order not to freeze during the cold season, some may go into seasonal hibernation. When the temperature, on the contrary, is too high, they are more active at night. Reptiles have tough skin covered with scales. The main task of the scales is to protect them from drying out. Turtles have a strong shell, while crocodiles have hard plates on their backs and heads. The bone skeleton of these animals is well developed. The ribs of snakes are designed so that they crawl with ease. Most reptiles have a short tongue. Only lizards and snakes have a long, forked one that can extend from the mouth. The reproductive organs are similar to those of birds. Some eggs remain inside until they hatch.

Reptile animals examples: lizards

Lizards are the largest group of reptiles. This is sometimes the name given to all reptiles with legs, except crocodiles and turtles. However, it is worth highlighting real lizards and related species.

True lizards are small or slightly larger than average. The length reaches a maximum of 80 cm, although generally 20-40 cm. Their body, limbs, and color are adapted to their habitat. Desert representatives have long toes on their paws with lateral teeth that prevent them from sinking into the sand. Interestingly, in case of danger, the lizard itself breaks its tail to distract the attacker. While the owner runs away, the tail continues to wriggle, distracting the predator. Males are larger than females and more brightly colored. The color is predominantly green, gray, brown colors. Desert ones are colored yellow. For the most part, lizards do not make sounds. Only Stechlina and Simona, who live on the Canary Islands, squeak in case of danger.

Area

They live mainly in Europe, Africa, and Asia. IN North America they were brought in. You can see a lizard in a forest, meadow, desert, steppe or even in a garden. These reptiles instantly climb low bushes, crawl along tree trunks and grass stems. Nimble and maneuverable, they easily move along a vertical surface.

Lizards are active early in the morning or at sunset. Less active during the day. Very cautious, they immediately freeze as soon as they sense danger. When a suspicious object approaches, they run away. Interestingly, desert species instinctively raise their paws one at a time to avoid getting burned by the hot sand.

Nutrition

Feeds this type reptiles and invertebrates. More major representatives They can catch a small rodent, a snake, or eat a bird's nest. They love to feast on spiders, butterflies, and grasshoppers. Snails and worms are rare, but are found in their diet. Some species do not disdain plant fruits.

Protection from enemies

Snakes are hunting these beauties, big birds. To protect themselves, lizards use several methods: fast running, freezing, camouflage. Interestingly, it is almost impossible to throw a lizard that is hiding from a bush. If caught, it instantly throws off its tail or bites hard. It can grab itself by the leg and twist itself into a ring - an excellent defense against a snake, because in this form the latter will not be able to swallow its prey.

Reptiles examples: turtles

Let's continue our acquaintance with reptiles, the list of names continues with turtles - the most known species reptiles. There are land and sea. Distributed throughout the world. You can keep them as a pet.

Description of turtles

The shell has a bone structure. The respiratory organ is the lungs. Aquatic animals absorb air using the mucous membrane of the pharynx. The main difference from other reptiles is longevity. The largest representatives of this species are marine. The length of the shell of the largest is 2 m, and it weighs more than 900 kg. The smallest turtle is only 10 cm long.

Reproduction

To lay eggs, the female makes a pitcher-shaped hole. Then the expectant mother falls asleep and compacts it thoroughly. Depending on the variety, the number of eggs ranges from one to two hundred.

Character

By nature, these reptiles are solitary. They communicate with their own kind only in mating season. Land animals mainly use plants as food, but freshwater animals are predators. It happens that children can lead a predatory lifestyle, and as adults switch to plant foods.

Reptiles Examples: Snakes

The main difference from other reptiles is body shape

In the body of these reptiles we will find three elements: the head, the body itself, and the tail. They have no limbs, eyelids, or external auditory canal.

Differences from reptiles

Most snakes are poisonous. The poison is contained in the teeth. The internal organs of these reptiles are very different. For example, there is no bladder. The eyes have a cornea. Nocturnal representatives have a transverse pupil, while nocturnal ones have a vertical pupil. They can only hear loud sounds.

Separately, it is worth highlighting the snakes

These snakes are not poisonous. The scales are brightly colored. They live near bodies of water. They feed on fish and can catch small mammals. They swallow their prey whole. If it senses danger, it freezes, and when an enemy approaches, it secretes a stinking liquid from its mouth. Reptiles breed on plant soil.

Reptile animals examples: crocodiles

Most dangerous look reptiles. The size of the ancient representatives exceeded 15 meters in length. Remains have been found on all continents. Modern crocodiles are much smaller, but they are still the largest reptiles.

Way of life

Most of the time they are in the water. On the surface are only the organs of vision, hearing, and nose. The tail and paws are webbed, which allows them to swim well. However, crocodiles do not swim to great depths. These reptiles make their nests on land. They come out of the water only to warm themselves. They have a powerful tail and move quickly in water and on land. They attack unexpectedly. Therefore, they are extremely dangerous for humans.

Reptiles, list: let's summarize

In total, more than six thousand reptiles are known to man, which are distributed throughout to the globe. They mainly live on land. Most suitable for them warm climate with moderate humidity. However, among reptiles there are desert inhabitants. Most representatives of snakes and crocodiles are very dangerous to human life. However, these reptiles also have benefits. For example, in medicinal purposes Scientists have learned to use snake venom. It increases blood clotting, drugs based on it reduce painful sensations for rheumatism, neuralgia. More than two thousand snakes are not poisonous at all, but they feed on harmful rodents, reducing their numbers in their habitat. Expensive haberdashery products are made from crocodile skin. Reptile meat is also used for food and is considered a delicacy. In this sense, eggs and turtle meat are valued.

Reptiles, like any other animals, can pose some danger to humans, only if they are handled incorrectly. IN modern world you can admire an alligator or rattlesnake. Meeting in real life There is practically no threat to us with them.

Reptiles- typical terrestrial animals and their main method of movement is crawling, reptiles on the ground. The most important structural features and biology of reptiles helped their ancestors leave the water and spread widely across the land. These features primarily include internal fertilization And egg laying, rich in nutrients and covered with a dense protective shell, which facilitates their development on land.

The body of reptiles has protective formations in the form scales, covering them with a continuous cover. The skin is always dry, evaporation through it is impossible, so they can live in dry places. Reptiles breathe exclusively with the help of their lungs, which, compared to the lungs of amphibians, have a more complex structure. Intensive lung breathing became possible thanks to the appearance of a new skeletal section in reptiles - chest. The chest is formed by a number of ribs connected on the dorsal side to the spine, and on the abdominal side to the sternum. The ribs, thanks to special muscles, are mobile and contribute to the expansion of the chest and lungs during inhalation and their collapse at the moment of exhalation.

With a change in structure respiratory system changes in blood circulation are closely related. Most reptiles have a three-chambered heart and two circuits of blood circulation (as do amphibians). However, the structure of the reptile heart is more complex. In its ventricle there is a septum, which at the moment of contraction of the heart almost completely divides it into the right (venous) and left (arterial) halves.

This structure of the heart and the location of the main vessels, different from that of amphibians, more strongly delineates the venous and arterial flows, therefore, the body of reptiles is supplied with blood that is more saturated with oxygen. The main vessels of the systemic and pulmonary circulation are typical of all terrestrial vertebrates. The main difference between the pulmonary circulation of amphibians and reptiles is that in reptiles the cutaneous arteries and veins have disappeared and the pulmonary circulation includes only pulmonary vessels.

About 8,000 are known today existing species reptiles that live on all continents except Antarctica. Modern reptiles are divided into orders: protolizards, scaly, crocodiles And turtles.

Reproduction of reptiles

Fertilization in terrestrial reptiles internal: the male injects sperm into the female’s cloaca; they penetrate the egg cells, where fertilization occurs. The female's body develops eggs, which she lays on land (buries in a hole). The outside of the egg is covered with a dense shell. The egg contains a reserve nutrients, due to which the development of the embryo occurs. The eggs do not produce larvae, as in fish and amphibians, but individuals capable of independent life.

First Lizard Squad

TO proto-lizards refers to "living fossil" - tuateria- the only species that has survived to this day only on small islands near New Zealand. This is a sedentary animal, leading mainly night look life and appearance lizard-like. Hatteria in its structure has features that are similar to reptiles and amphibians: the vertebral bodies are biconcave, with a chord preserved between them.

Otrad scaly

Typical representative scaly - quick lizard. Its appearance indicates that it is a terrestrial animal: the five-fingered limbs do not have swimming membranes, the fingers are armed with claws; the legs are short, and therefore the body, when moving, seems to crawl along the ground, every now and then coming into contact with it - reptiles (hence the name).

Lizards

Although the lizard's legs are short, it can run quickly, quickly escaping from its pursuers into its burrow or climbing a tree. This was the reason for its name - quick. The lizard's head is connected to the cylindrical body using the neck. The neck is poorly developed, but will still give the lizard's head some mobility. Unlike a frog, a lizard can turn its head without turning its whole body. Like all land animals, it has through nostrils, and its eyes have eyelids.

Behind each eye, in a small depression, is the eardrum, connected to the middle and inner ear. From time to time, the lizard sticks out of its mouth a long, thin tongue forked at the end - an organ of touch and taste.

The lizard's body, covered with scales, rests on two pairs of legs. The humerus and femur bones are parallel to the surface of the earth, causing the body to sag and drag along the ground. The ribs are attached to the thoracic vertebrae, forming the rib cage, which protects the heart and lungs from damage.

The digestive, excretory and nervous systems of the lizard are basically similar to the corresponding systems of amphibians.

Respiratory organs - lungs. Their walls have a cellular structure, which significantly increases their surface area. The lizard does not have skin respiration.

The lizard's brain is better developed than that of amphibians. Although it has the same five sections, the forebrain hemispheres are larger in size, and the cerebellum and medulla oblongata are much more massive.

The sand lizard is distributed very widely from the Black Sea to the Arkhangelsk region, from the Baltic Sea to Transbaikalia. In the north, it gives way to a viviparous lizard similar to it, but more adapted to the cold climate. In the southern regions there are many different types lizards Lizards live in burrows, which in summer weather they leave in the morning and evening, but no further than 10-20 m from the burrow.

They feed on insects, slugs, and in the south - locusts, caterpillars of butterflies and beetles. Within a day, one lizard can destroy up to 70 insects and plant pests. Therefore, lizards deserve protection as very useful animals.

The lizard's body temperature is not constant (the animal is active only in the warm season); it drops sharply even if a cloud approaches the sun. With a longer drop in temperature, the lizard loses mobility and stops eating. During the winter it hibernates; can tolerate freezing and cooling of the body down to -5°, -7°C, while all the life processes of the animal slow down significantly. Gradual warming returns the lizard to active life.

In addition to the sand lizard and viviparous lizard, there are many other species of lizards. Common in Ukraine and the Caucasus large green lizard: in desert areas - agama lizards with a long flexible and unbreakable tail.

Predatory lizard gray monitor lizard, living in the deserts of Central Asia. Its length is up to 60 cm. The monitor lizard eats arthropods, rodents, eggs of turtles and birds. The largest specimens of monitor lizards discovered by herpetologists (the science that studies reptiles) on the island of Komolo reach 36 cm. northern regions common legless lizard - spindle.

Chameleons

Chameleons in appearance they resemble medium-sized lizards, with a helmet-shaped outgrowth on the head and a laterally compressed body. This is a highly specialized animal, adapted to an arboreal lifestyle. His fingers are fused together like pincers, with which he tightly grasps the branches of trees. The long and prehensile tail is also used for climbing. The chameleon has a very unique eye structure. The movements of the left and right eyes are not coordinated and independent of each other, which provides some advantages when catching insects. Interesting feature Chameleon's ability to change skin color is a protective device. Chameleons are common in India, Madagascar, Africa, Asia Minor and southern Spain.

Snakes

In addition to lizards, the order Squamate includes snakes. Unlike chameleons, snakes are adapted to crawling on their stomachs and swimming. Due to wave-like movements, the legs gradually completely lost their role as organs of locomotion; only some snakes retained their rudiments (a boa constrictor). Snakes move by bending their legless body. Adaptation to crawling was manifested in the structure internal organs snakes, some of them completely disappeared. Snakes have no bladder and only one lung.

Snakes see poorly. Their eyelids are fused, transparent and cover their eyes like a watch glass.

Among the snakes there are non-venomous and poisonous species. The largest non-venomous snake is boa- lives in the tropics. There are boas up to 10 m long. They attack birds and mammals, strangling their prey by squeezing it with their body, and then swallowing it whole. Large boas living in tropical forests, are also dangerous for humans.

From non-venomous snakes widespread snakes. The common snake is easily distinguished from poisonous snakes by two orange crescent spots on the head and round pupils of the eyes. It lives near rivers, lakes, ponds, feeding on frogs, and sometimes small fish, swallowing them alive.

Poisonous snakes include viper, cobra, or spectacled snake , rattlesnake and etc.

Viper easily recognized by the long zigzag dark stripe running along the back. In the upper jaw of the viper there are two poisonous teeth with tubules inside. Through these tubules, the poisonous liquid secreted by the salivary glands of the snake enters the wound of the victim, and the victim, for example a mouse or small bird, dies.

By destroying huge numbers of mice and locusts, vipers benefit humans. However, their bites can cause long-term illness and even death in animals and even humans. The venom of such snakes as asian cobra, American rattlesnake.

Wounds formed when a person is bitten by a snake look like two red dots. Painful swelling quickly occurs around them, gradually spreading throughout the body. A person develops drowsiness, cold sweats, nausea, delirium, and in severe cases, death occurs.

If a person is bitten by a poisonous snake, it is necessary to immediately take first aid measures., remove excess poison near the wound with blotting paper, cotton wool or a clean cloth, if possible, disinfect the bite site with a manganese solution, strictly protect the wound from contamination, give the victim strong tea or coffee, and ensure rest. Then take him to the hospital as quickly as possible for immediate administration of anti-snake serum. Where there are poisonous snakes, you should not walk barefoot. Care must be taken when picking berries, protecting your hands from snake bites.

Otrad crocodiles

Crocodiles- these are the largest and most highly organized predatory reptiles, adapted to an aquatic lifestyle, living in tropical countries. Nile crocodile Spends most of its life in water, where it swims beautifully, using a strong, laterally compressed tail, as well as hind limbs that have swimming membranes. The crocodile's eyes and nostrils are elevated, so it only needs to raise its head out of the water a little and it can already see what is happening above the water, and also breathe atmospheric air.

On land, crocodiles are slow to maneuver and, when in danger, rush into the water. They quickly drag their prey into the water. These are various animals that the crocodile lies in wait at watering places. It can also attack humans. Crocodiles hunt mainly at night. During the day they often lie motionless in groups on the shallows.

Turtle squad

Turtles differ from other reptiles in their well-developed, durable shell. It is formed from bone plates, covered on the outside with horny substance, and consists of two shields: the upper convex and the lower flat. These shields are connected to each other from the sides, and there are large gaps in front and behind the joints. The head and forelimbs are exposed from the front, and the hind limbs from the back. Almost all aquatic turtles- predators, land animals - herbivores.

Turtles typically lay hard-shelled eggs on land. Turtles grow slowly, but are among the long-livers (up to 150 years). There are giant turtles (soup turtle up to 1 m long. Weight - 450 kg. marsh turtle- up to 2 m and up to 400 kg). They are objects of fishing.

Meat, fat, eggs are used for food, and a variety of horn products are made from the shell. We have one species of turtles - marsh turtle, lives up to 30 years. During the winter it hibernates.

Reptiles cause quite a mixed reaction in people. Incredibly strong, dangerous and at the same time cute, these peers of dinosaurs have become the best example of animal adaptation to environment. Ten reptiles on our list deserve special attention.

10. Agama Mwanza - the real spider-man of the reptile world

The red-headed rock agama is considered one of the most colorful reptiles on the planet. During the hottest part of the day, the males of this lizard are painted in bright red and blue colors, and the presence of a rival on their territory causes the lizards to take on ever brighter colors. The combination of blue and red colors made this lizard incredibly popular on the Internet, where it was immediately dubbed the Spider-Man lizard. These lizards sometimes reach 40 centimeters in length. Their food consists of small insects and rodents that live in their territory. Agamas are the most common species of lizard in Africa.

9. Marine Iguana

Adaptation of animals to their environment is key to species thriving. The process of evolution can create the most unique living organisms from the most common specimens. Marine iguanas With Galapagos Islands- a vivid example. These reptiles feed on algae and can often be seen on coastal rocks, where they “graze” like normal land mammals. Iguanas come in a wide range of colors, from brown to pinkish-green. These are the only sea lizards on the planet, which are a unique example of adaptation to their environment. Marine iguanas swim like crocodiles, and with razor-sharp teeth they tear off algae from coastal rocks.

8. Gharial


The adaptation process often involves adjusting to a new diet and takes a long time. Although crocodiles and alligators do not suffer much from food shortages, using brute strength and powerful jaws, one species of this family has developed more advanced tactics. Reaching 6 meters in length, the gharial, although it looks menacing, does not pose any threat to people. Using narrow and long jaws, the gharial became an excellent fish hunter, leaving more big catch to their brothers. The slightly creepy appearance seems to suggest that these crocodiles love to hide under water, exposing only their nose and eyes. Unfortunately, on this moment gharials are under threat of extinction due to the almost complete destruction of their habitat.

7. Rhinoceros Viper


Vipers are considered one of the most effective and dangerous predators of our planet. Although these venomous snakes feed exclusively on small prey, human activity can cause them to become aggressive. Rhinoceros vipers stand out from other species due to their unique appearance, their scales look like a real patchwork quilt of different colors. The so-called horns protruding above the head give a special exoticism to its appearance. Such variegated coloring is the result of adaptation of this reptile, allowing it to camouflage more effectively. Just over a meter long, this snake can cause you a lot of trouble with its venom.

6. Rubber snake


You might think Canada is no place for boas, but you'd be wrong. British Columbia is home to a small boa constrictor called the rubber snake. These snakes have a unique ability among reptiles - they can control their body temperature. Despite the fact that the snake reaches a length of only 45 centimeters, its external resemblance to typical boa constrictors is simply striking. The rubber snake can live up to 70 years in the most different environments a habitat. It is often called a two-headed snake, due to the special hunting method of these reptiles. She uses her tail as bait or as a distraction. Often, numerous scars from mouse bites can be found on the tails of these snakes - this is how they distract adults from their nests. While the mouse is trying to overcome the snake's tail, the boa constrictor is already feasting on the little mice.

5. Javan Xenoderm


This snake, also known as the dragon snake, is a rare nocturnal species of snake that feeds exclusively on frogs. The reptile itself is black, long and easily distinguished from the rest, thanks to several rows of unusually widely spaced scales. This primitive look a snake decorated with a unique set of scales of different types - from spiky to lamellar. The snake lives in Thailand, Burma and Indonesia.

4. Mata-mata turtle


Most turtles are fairly harmless creatures, but the mata mata is an exception to this rule. This species lives in the Amazon. The unique snake-like neck allows this turtle to attack birds, reptiles, invertebrates and fish that are unfortunate enough to be in its vicinity. To date, we do not know of any cases of this reptile attacking humans, but we do not recommend tempting fate.

3. African egg snakes


Snakes are renowned for their aggressiveness and swift attacks, but this species takes a much more leisurely approach to feeding. Specializing in plundering birds' nests, these snakes are capable of swallowing an egg whole. The absence of traditional teeth, as we are accustomed to seeing them, is compensated by special structure cervical vertebrae. Their lower sections have special elongated processes that protrude from the walls of the esophagus. They easily open the egg shell, allowing the snake to get the precious contents.

2. Legless lizards


It happens that many things are not what they seem at first glance. The first time you looked at the legless lizard, you would immediately mistake it for a snake. But these lizards actually don’t need limbs; they hunt well and move with serpentine movements. They differ from snakes in the structure of their jaws, the presence of movable eyelids and the shoulder girdle. European legless lizards feed primarily on snails and often wipe their noses on the ground to remove mucus.

1. Chinese Trionix


How can a turtle be without a shell? As elsewhere, in our case there are exceptions. Chinese Trionix boasts the absence of a shell as such. Instead, it has spherical leathery growths on its back. These turtles reach a length of just over 30 centimeters and feed on a wide variety of prey. One of them distinctive features– urination through the oral cavity. This process occurs when the turtle is immersed in water. Thus, it controls the amount of fluid in the body and prevents accumulation large quantity salts, which is important for marine inhabitants.