 Integument of the Reptiles

o reflects their greater commitment to a terrestrial existence

o Keratinization is much more extensive
o skin glands are fewer than in amphibians
o Scales are present, but these are fundamentally different from the dermal scales of fishes,
which are built around bone of dermal origin.
o reptilian scale - a fold in the surface epidermis, hence, an epidermal scale
o hinge – junction between two adjacent scales
o Scute - large platelike epidermal scale
o epidermal scales may be modified into crests, spines, or hornlike processes
o gastralia
a collection of bones in the abdominal area are found in reptiles
not associated with dermal bones
o Osteoderms
dermal bones that support the epidermis
o Osteoderms are found in crocodilians, some lizards, and some extinct reptiles.
o The dermis of reptilian skin composed of fibrous connective tissue
o epidermis is generally delineated into three regions: stratum basale, stratum granulosum,
and stratum corneum
o stratum intermedium, a temporary layer between old and new skin which is invaded by
WBC
o Many lizards possess rows of femoral glands along the underside of the hindlimb in the
thigh region.
o Crocodiles and some turtles have scent glands
o In alligators of both sexes, one pair of scent glands opens into the cloaca, another pair
opens on the margins of the lower jaw
o In some turtles, scent glands can produce quite pungent odors, especially when the animal
is alarmed by handling.
o Most integumental glands of reptiles are thought
to play a role in reproductive behavior
to discourage predators, but the glands and their social roles are not well understood