What characteristic defines membership in the Order Squamata?
Answer
Having a kinetic skull and scales or scutes covering the body.
The Order Squamata encompasses all lizards and snakes, and its members are defined by specific physical characteristics related to their integument and skeletal structure. The primary defining features mentioned for this order include possessing a kinetic skull, which allows for greater flexibility in jaw movement essential for swallowing large prey, and having their bodies covered by scales or scutes. While classification as Reptilia covers ectothermy, and Chordata relates to the notochord, Squamata is the specific rank grouping snakes and lizards based on these shared morphological traits.
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