Based on common characteristics of reptiles compared to mammals, how do they differ from mammals? (lesson 6)
Reptiles differ from mammals in several ways. Some common characteristics that distinguish reptiles from mammals include:
1. Body temperature regulation: Reptiles are ectothermic, meaning they rely on external sources of heat such as the sun to regulate their body temperature. In contrast, mammals are endothermic and can regulate their body temperature internally.
2. Skin: Reptiles typically have dry, scaly skin, while mammals have hair or fur covering their bodies.
3. Reproduction: Most reptiles lay eggs, while mammals give birth to live young. There are some exceptions to this rule, such as the platypus and echidna which are egg-laying mammals.
4. Teeth and jaw structure: Reptiles generally have multiple sets of teeth that are constantly being replaced throughout their lives, whereas mammals typically have only two sets of teeth (deciduous and permanent). Additionally, mammals have specialized teeth for chewing and digesting food, whereas reptiles have more generalized teeth for biting and tearing.
5. Respiration: Reptiles have a single loop circulatory system and rely on their skin for gas exchange to supplement their lungs. Mammals have a more developed respiratory system with a four-chambered heart and rely primarily on their lungs for gas exchange.
Overall, these differences in characteristics highlight the unique adaptations that reptiles have evolved to thrive in their environments compared to mammals.