Why do lizards lose their tails?

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  1. Myn Is Me profile image49
    Myn Is Meposted 13 years ago

    Why do lizards lose their tails?

  2. brittanytodd profile image91
    brittanytoddposted 13 years ago

    Have you ever seen a gecko without a tail and wondered why? Lizards and other amphibians have the ability to regenerate their limbs. Continue reading to find out how. read more

  3. Melissa A Smith profile image81
    Melissa A Smithposted 13 years ago

    They don't all lose their tails, at least, they can't all grow it back. And when they do, it will never be the same, unlike with some amphibians. It is a defense mechanism.

  4. profile image0
    WhoWhatWhereWhenposted 13 years ago

    A lizard is stretched out on a rock, basking in the sun. The skin on the underside of its neck throbs gently as it breathes. It is warm and contented.

    At the slightest noise he will shoot off to hide under the rocks. You may be quicker than he is, but if you catch him by the tail it will come off in your hand like a ripe fruit off a tree.

    It is painful for the lizard, but he would rather lose his tail than his life. About half-way down his tail there is a ring of muscle which is strong enough to break the back-bone when it contracts. So a pull is enough to complete the amputation. The tail will grow again at least once.

    It is also said that the wagging of the tail-end can distract the attention of an enemy. And in fact it does continue to twitch for a few moments after coming off.

    1. Myn Is Me profile image49
      Myn Is Meposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      While it sounds like a life saving ability it also seems quite painful!

 
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