What physical trait aids many lizards in faster solar radiation absorption?
Answer
Dark pigmentation
Since lizards are ectotherms, their internal physiological processes—including digestion, heart rate, and muscle function—are entirely reliant on external environmental temperatures. To efficiently raise their body temperature for activity, many species have evolved dark pigmentation. Dark colors maximize the absorption of incoming solar radiation, allowing the lizard to warm up more quickly than lighter-colored counterparts. This physical adaptation directly supports their thermoregulation strategy, which is further aided by behavioral tactics like basking or orienting their bodies strategically towards the sun.
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