Tuatara The most ancient type of Reptile that is still alive today

Tuatara Tuatara belongs to class Sauropsida There is only one species that belongs to Tuatara, the Sphenodon It is the last remaining relative of an ancient groups of reptiles called Sphenodontia (hence the name Sphenodon)

Sphenodon

Sphenodon

Tuatara, the Sphenodon Tuatara is believed to be a direct line from the extinct Archosauramorpha

Tuatara Most of the Sphenodon’s relatives died 60 MYA. The Sphenodon has not changed at all in the past 225 million years, therefore it is known as a “living fossil”

Tuatara Many people confuse Tuatara with lizards. They look the same, but they are not. Can you think of any differences?

Tuatara vs. Lizards

Tuatara: Nocturnal Loose scales, soft to the touch Pineal gland Variable body temperatures- able to live in colder temps Lizards Active during the day Scaly, hard skin No pineal glad Body temperatures are more dependent on the environment

Tuatara vs. Lizards Tuatara Non-visible ear opening No penis Very specialized teeth arrangement Lizards Visible ear opening Has a penis Regular rows of teeth