Classification of Class Reptilia
There are three major subclasses:
Anapsida
Few characteristics of Anapsida are
- They are subdivided into Chelonia and Cotylosauria.
- The roof over the skull is formed by the dermal bones. No presence of temporal fossae.
- The roof of the skull is solid.
- Strong limbs.
- Examples are turtles and tortoises.
Parapsida
Few characteristics of Parapsida are:
- The presence of one temporal fossa, high up on the skull. Examples are Placodonts, Nothosaurs and Protosaurs.
- Ichthyosaurs and Plesiosaurs are two large groups.
Diapsida
Few characteristics of Diapsida are:
- The pterosaurs and dinosaurs are part of this group.
- The skull has two temporal vacuities.
- The two major groups are Lepidosauria and Archosauria.
- Examples are Chameleon and Crocodilus.
Reptilia: Definition, Characteristics, Classification, and Example
Reptilia is a group of vertebrates that includes animals such as lizards, alligators, tortoises, turtles, crocodiles, and snakes. Animals of the class Reptilia are known as Reptiles. Reptilia can be found in various regions such as forests, deserts, freshwater, wetlands, and mangroves. They are cold-blooded animals and their skin is covered with scales.
The Mesozoic Era was the “Golden Age of Reptiles.” The study of snakes is known as Serpentology or Ophiology. They are mostly terrestrial and tetrapods. Reptilia is divided into anapsida, parapsida and diapsida. Reptilia has both ecological and economic importance.
Table of Content
- What is Reptilia?
- Characteristics of Reptilia
- Examples of Reptilia
- Classification of Class Reptilia
- Groups of Reptiles
- Extinct Groups of Reptilia
- Importance of Reptilia
- Ecological Significance of Reptilia
- Difference between Amphibia and Reptilia
- Conservation Challenges for Reptiles