Summary
Scaly, ectothermic vertebrates that lay shelled eggs on land, including snakes, lizards and turtles.
In depth
Scales of keratin, amniotic eggs with shells, internal fertilisation, lungs only and ectothermy. Groups: turtles, lizards and snakes, crocodilians, tuatara.
Reptiles' dry scaly skin prevents water loss. Amniotic eggs allow reproduction away from water. Crocodilians are the closest living relatives of birds among those called reptiles.
Example: snakes can sense heat using pit organs.
Frequently asked questions
What is Reptiles?
Scaly, ectothermic vertebrates that lay shelled eggs on land, including snakes, lizards and turtles.
Which area of biology covers Reptiles, and how advanced is it?
Reptiles is one of the 53 topics in Zoology & Animal Diversity. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Birds, Fish, Animal Excretion.
Can you give an example of Reptiles?
Some reptile sex is decided by incubation temperature.
What should I learn before Reptiles?
Reptiles is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Zoology & Animal Diversity that pair well with it include Animal Kingdom, Vertebrates and Invertebrates, Sponges.
What topics are related to Reptiles?
The closest topics to Reptiles are Birds, Fish, Animal Excretion, Amphibians. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Reptiles?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Reptiles. To practise the whole of Zoology & Animal Diversity, use the Zoology & Animal Diversity quiz.
How is Reptiles different from Birds?
Reptiles: Scaly, ectothermic vertebrates that lay shelled eggs on land, including snakes, lizards and turtles. Birds: Feathered, warm-blooded vertebrates with wings and lightweight bones, most of which fly. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Reptiles step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Birds and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Zoology & Animal Diversity quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.