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Amphisbaenians, Lizards, and Snakes - Order Squamata

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Amphisbaenians, Lizards, and Snakes - Order Squamata.

Amphisbaenians, Lizards, and Snakes - Order Squamata.

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Amphisbaenians, lizards, and snakes (Order Squamata) together make up a group of reptiles that are characterized by having skin that is covered with scales. Squamata also possess highly mobile quadrate bones. These bones, located in the upper jaw of amphisbaenians, lizards, and snakes, enables these animals to open their mouth very wide, enabling them to consume relatively large prey.

Classification:

  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum Chordata
  • Class: Reptilia
  • Order: Squamata
    The Order Squamata contains the following subgroups:
    • Suborder: Iguania (anoles, chameleons, iguanas, and relatives)
    • Suborder: Scleroglossa (geckos, amphisbaenians, skinks, snakes, and relatives)

References:

  • Burnie D, Wilson DE. 2001. Animal. London: Dorling Kindersley. 624 p.

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