Home >> Science & Nature >> Animals & Science

What Are the Uses of Reptiles?

Reptiles, cold-blooded animals with scales, divide into four main categories: crocodilians, lizards, snakes and testudines, such as turtles and tortoises. Ranging in size from less than an inch to nearly 20 feet, reptiles live in the waterways and on every continent except Antarctica. Some of these air-breathing creatures, such as the anaconda, induce phobias, while others, such as the sea turtle, are publicly adored. No matter society's opinion, reptiles are useful members of the environment and the planet.

Pets
- Although they are not furry and cuddly, reptiles make excellent pets. Raising a reptile requires tanks, food such as insects or rodents and lights to keep the cold-blooded creatures warm and mobile. Small turtles are low-maintenance and the owners do not have to deal with large food types. People raise small turtles and small and medium-sized lizards, such as geckos and iguanas. Ball pythons are a smaller snake option, but some people also raise venomous snakes and larger constrictors.
Food
- Although reptile meat is not particularly common throughout the United States, some people and cultures enjoy the food. People hunt lizards, crocodilians, snakes and turtles to eat them. Reptile farming has grown in popularity and industry to accommodate for the growing demand for reptile meat and eggs. The turtle trade remains strong in China because of the traditional folklore surrounding the consumption of turtle meat. Some researchers believe high metal content makes reptiles unsafe to consume.
Animal Control
- Because reptiles are carnivores, they naturally keep small animals and pests under control. Small lizards and turtles feast on insects, keeping their populations at bay. Snakes eat rodents, keeping them from becoming a nuisance in gardens, houses and garages. If too many reptiles search for food in an area, the food source will diminish so far that they have to move elsewhere. Pest control companies should remove any dangerous reptiles found near homes, but safe reptiles should stay to keep nature in check.
Miscellaneous
- Reptiles tend to bioaccumulate heavy metals and other elements, so researchers sample their blood to provide evidence of their food choices, the surrounding areas and the ecosystem. Other research with reptiles ranges from caged experiments to tagging and releasing individuals. Reptiles also live in museums and zoos to educate the public and expose children to the natural variety of animals. In the medical field, reptile venom shows potential to break up blood clots, induce clotting, treat breast cancer and cure neurological diseases, including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases.

Animals & Science