Lizard Integument

The scaly appearance of the skin of the lizard (Lacerta agilis) (© RVC and its licensors. All rights reserved)

Many lizards have quite thick skin while others, such as geckos, have soft, vulnerable skin. The skin undergoes ecdysis and comes off in a patchwork fashion.

Dewlaps, spines, crests and horns are generally more developed in male lizards.

Chromatophores are responsible for the change of skin colour in species capable of it.

A lateral skin fold between the fore and hind limbs provides a convenient site for the subcutaneous injection of fluid.