Characters/anatomy
The Lepidosauria are diapsid reptiles with overlapping scales.
They include the Sphenodontia (e.g.
tuatara), lizards
and snakes. Lepidosaurians are the
most successful of modern reptiles. The Lepidosauria are mainly
characterized by:
- Long bones capped by epiphyses (articulating surfaces) of
bone or calcified cartilage
- The postparietal and tabulat in the skull are lost.
- Kidneys have a sexual segment.
- Distinctive structures in pituitary and adrenal glands.
- Determinate growth. Growth stops when cartilaginous plates
that separate the ends of the long bones and epiphyses become
fully ossified.
Author: Koen Stein
Last updated: 21/11/2005
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