What specific structure fuses with scales to armor the Gila monster?
Answer
Osteoderms
Osteoderms are specialized bony deposits found embedded within the skin of certain lizards, providing substantial physical protection. In the case of the Gila monster, these osteoderms fuse with the scales, creating a robust, bead-like armor structure. This is distinct from the purely keratinized scales found on many other species. While the regenerative process for a lost tail involves cartilage, osteoderms are the bony elements integrated into the dermal layer for continuous defense, distinguishing armored species like the Gila monster.
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