What defines members of the reptile Order Squamata regarding body covering?
Answer
Overlapping, keratinous scales or scutes
The Order Squamata is the most extensive order within the Class Reptilia, containing all lizards, snakes, and amphisbaenians (worm lizards). The fundamental characteristic that unites this diverse group is the presence of overlapping, keratinous scales or scutes covering their bodies. These scales provide essential protection against environmental abrasion and desiccation. It is within this specific order that the snake-like characteristics, such as the elongation of the body, the loss of limbs, and the development of highly mobile jaw structures, become evident as key divergences from other squamates.
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