Are All Reptiles Dinosaurs?
Reptiles and dinosaurs conjure up images of prehistoric animals and reptiles like snakes, lizards and crocodiles. However, it is important to note that not all reptiles are dinosaurs.
What Is A Reptile?
Reptiles are a class of animals that have scales, which are adapted over time to prevent excessive water loss. They typically have a four-chambered heart, which separates the oxygenated and deoxygenated blood. Reptiles are ectothermic, meaning their body temperatures are influenced by their surroundings. This is why you will often see reptiles soaking up the sun on rocks and warm surfaces.
What Is A Dinosaur?
Dinosaurs are a subgroup of reptiles that are characterized by several physical traits. These traits include a five fingered hands and large, powerful legs. They can range in size with some weighing up to 70 tons! Dinosaurs are also an extinct species, meaning they are no longer in existence.
Are All Reptiles Dinosaurs?
No, not all reptiles are dinosaurs. While all dinosaurs are reptiles, not all reptiles are dinosaurs. Other reptiles include snakes, lizards, turtles, and crocodiles, which are still in existence today. They are examples of the diverse range of reptiles living on the planet today.
Conclusion
In conclusion, reptiles and dinosaurs both belong to the same class of animals, but not all reptiles are dinosaurs. Dinosaurs are a subgroup of reptiles, and are distinguishable because of their unique physical characteristics and extinct status. There are still many species of reptiles alive today, with many being highly varied within the group.
