How Many Species of Reptiles Are There?
Reptiles are a wide and varied group of animals that occupy every continent of the world. Reptiles include more than 8,000 different species, with some of the most charismatic and beloved being the turtles, lizards, snakes, and the crocodilians.
Different Types of Reptiles
The world of reptilian species is divided into four distinct groups:
- Turtles: Also known as Testudines, it is a group of reptiles with a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and behavior. They are known for their hard shells, which come in both terrestrial and aquatic forms, and also for their slow metabolisms.
- Lizards: This order includes over 6,000 species of reptiles with bizarre behavior offered by a variety of shapes and sizes. They are often found in warm and humid tropical areas, feed primarily on insects, and have long tails that help them move quickly over the ground.
- Snakes: This group of reptiles includes some of the most feared animals on the planet, but also some of the most beautiful. While they mostly have limbless bodies, they have a wide range of colors and they move very swiftly by using their scales.
- Crocodilians: This group of reptiles includes the alligators, caimans, gharials, and crocodiles. They live in freshwater habitats and are known for their massive size, sharp teeth, and protective armor.
Conclusion
There are close to 8,000 species of reptiles currently known, with new species being discovered every year. Reptiles are found practically everywhere on the planet, from the highest mountains to the deepest seas. Their incredible range of forms, sizes, and behavior make them unique and fascinating animals to study and observe.
