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→Function and Morphology
==Function and Morphology==
==Function and Morphology==
Reptile skin functions to protect from physical trauma, desiccation, infection, osmotic damage and extremes of temperature. There are several layers. The dermis is mainly connective tissue but contains the pigment cells. The epidermis is characterised by scales that are covered with keratin.
Reptile skin functions to protect from physical trauma, desiccation, infection, osmotic damage and extremes of temperature. There are several layers. The dermis is mainly connective tissue but contains the pigment cells. The epidermis is characterised by scales that are covered with keratin.
The skin of reptiles has numerous functions including display, protection, camouflage, thermoregulation and fluid [[Homeostasis|homeostasis]].
The skin of reptiles has numerous functions including display, protection, camouflage, thermoregulation and fluid homeostasis.
The skin is dry, with few glands compared with mammals and amphibians.
The skin is dry, with few glands compared with mammals and amphibians.