What feature defines the Order Squamata, encompassing snakes and lizards?
Answer
The presence of kinetic skulls and movable quadrate bones
The Order Squamata is distinguished by specific adaptations in the cranial structure that grant significant flexibility during feeding. The defining characteristic is the kinetic skull, which implies a skull where certain bones are relatively movable compared to other vertebrate groups. Crucially, this includes movable quadrate bones. These quadrate bones act as a crucial hinge point, allowing snakes, in particular, to expand their jaws dramatically beyond the size of their heads when consuming large prey. This morphological feature is vital for the success of Squamates across diverse terrestrial niches and serves as a primary feature separating them from other reptile orders.
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