To which taxonomic family does the limbless reptile *Bipes biporus* belong?
Answer
Amphisbaenidae
The classification of the Mexican mole lizard places it within the family Amphisbaenidae. Although it is indeed a lizard, its specialized adaptations, particularly its limbless body plan (save for the two forelimbs) and fossorial lifestyle, make it distinct from more common, above-ground scaled relatives. The Amphisbaenidae family encompasses creatures often referred to as 'worm lizards,' emphasizing their evolutionary divergence toward a burrowing existence, which is consistent with the morphology and habits observed in *Bipes biporus*.
Related Questions
What specific number of limbs does the Mexican mole lizard, *Bipes biporus*, possess?To which taxonomic family does the limbless reptile *Bipes biporus* belong?What is the primary reason reliable longevity figures for *Bipes biporus* are elusive?Where are *Bipes biporus* primarily found thriving in loose, sandy soils?How does the subterranean habitat potentially influence the metabolic rate of *Bipes biporus*?What typical food sources do *Bipes biporus* consume that they encounter underground?What key biological challenge does the lack of longevity data create for herpetoculturists dealing with *Bipes biporus*?How do *Bipes biporus* achieve locomotion underground without relying on typical lizard walking patterns?What observation about *Bipes canaliculatus* reinforces the knowledge gap concerning *Bipes biporus* lifespan?What process often leads to the incidental collection of *Bipes biporus* by humans?