What specialized physical characteristic is shared between lizards and snakes within the order Squamata?
Answer
Scaly, keratinized skin covering
Lizards and snakes both belong to the biological order Squamata, indicating a shared evolutionary lineage and several fundamental reptilian traits. The most immediate and common physical property they share, which distinguishes them from other reptile groups, is the integument—skin covered in scales. This reptilian skin is dry and characterized by being covered in keratinized scales. Although snakes are limbless and lack external ears or movable eyelids (features lizards possess), the fundamental body sheath of keratinized scales remains a defining characteristic of all members of the Squamata order.
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