Changes

* Beta-keratin which is unique to reptiles.  It is harder than alpha-keratin and forms scutes and scales.

* Beta-keratin which is unique to reptiles.  It is harder than alpha-keratin and forms scutes and scales.

==Dermis==

==Dermis==

The dermis of reptiles contains pigment cells, [[Snake Neurological System|nerves]] and vessels, although thick, keratinised skin is without cutaneous sensation, leaving captive reptiles at risk of thermal burns.

The dermis of reptiles contains pigment cells, [[Snake Neurological System|nerves]] and vessels; however, thick, keratinised skin is without cutaneous sensation, leaving captive reptiles at risk of thermal burns.

* Find out more about [[Snake Vesicular Dermatitis|snake vesicular dermatitis (blister disease)]].

* Find out more about [[Snake Vesicular Dermatitis|snake vesicular dermatitis (blister disease)]].

==Scales==

==Scales==

There is much variation in the size and shape of scales among species of snakes. For instance the [[Bushmaster|bushmaster]] has scales that are large with a dermal core or osteoderm while they may be partially overlapping and keeled in the [[Rattlesnake|rattlesnake]]. The smallest scales are seen in the [[Boidae|boids]] and worm snakes.

There is much variation in the size and shape of scales among species of snakes. For instance the [[Bushmaster|bushmaster]] has scales that are large with a dermal core or osteoderm while they may be partially overlapping and keeled in the [[Rattlesnake|rattlesnake]]. The smallest scales are seen in the [[Boidae|boids]] and worm snakes.