lizard
Definition
Lizards are squamates, which is a group of reptiles that also includes snakes. Lizards are distinguished from snakes by the presence of eyelids, external ear openings, and typically four legs. However, some lizards have lost their legs over time, such as the glass lizard.
Lizards have a number of adaptations that help them to survive in a variety of habitats. Their scales protect them from predators and the elements. Their long tails can help them to balance and to escape from predators. Their movable eyelids and external ear openings allow them to see and hear better.
Lizards are an important part of the ecosystem. They help to control populations of insects and other small animals. They are also preyed upon by larger animals, such as birds of prey and mammals.
How can the word be used?
The lizard's skin was a mottled green and brown.
Different forms of the word
Noun: A lizard is a reptile with a long, slender body, a tail, and scales.
Adjective: Lizard can also be used as an adjective to describe something that is related to lizards. For example, a lizard skin is a skin that is made from the scales of a lizard.
Verb: To lizard is a rare verb that means to move like a lizard. For example, the child lizarded across the floor.
Etymology
The word "lizard" comes from the Old English word "lyzard", which also means "lizard". It was first used in English in the 9th century.
The Old English word "lyzard" is related to the Old Norse word "lýsi" and the German word "Lechse", which both mean "lizard".
The word "lizard" is thought to be derived from a Proto-Germanic word that means "to crawl". This is because lizards are typically ground-dwelling reptiles that move by crawling.
Question
Describe what a lizard looks like.
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Describe the main characteristics of lizards and explain how they are adapted to their environment.
Answer:
Lizards are reptiles belonging to the suborder Lacertilia and are known for their diverse appearances and behaviours. They exhibit several key characteristics that distinguish them from other animals.
Firstly, lizards have scales covering their bodies, which provide protection and help reduce water loss through their skin. Their dry, scaly skin aids in preventing dehydration, especially in arid environments.
Secondly, most lizards are ectothermic, meaning they rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature. They bask in the sun or seek shade to maintain their ideal body temperature, which is essential for their metabolic activities.
Thirdly, lizards are equipped with specialised limbs that allow them to move efficiently. They have four legs and five-toed feet (except for some legless species) that aid in climbing, running, and capturing prey.
Furthermore, lizards exhibit a wide range of adaptations based on their habitats. Desert-dwelling lizards, like the fringed-toed lizard, have large, flattened scales on their feet that help them move across sandy surfaces. Arboreal lizards, such as chameleons, possess prehensile tails and specialised feet for grasping branches.
In aquatic environments, aquatic lizards like the water dragon have webbed feet and strong limbs for swimming. Lizards have evolved various feeding habits as well, including carnivorous, herbivorous, and omnivorous diets, allowing them to exploit available food sources.