Komodo Dragon - MW

Background
The Komodo Dragon (Varanus komodoensis) is a large sized lizard found in Indonesia (on the islands Komodo, Padar, Rinca, Gili Montag and Flores). It is an ectotherm and therefore cannot regulate its own temperature, relying on external sources of heat.

This species of lizard can group up to 3 metres in length and weighs approximately 70kg but can range up to 150kg (making them the heaviest lizards on earth.)

The Komodo Dragon is an endangered species with an estimated 57,000 living today.

Anatomical adaptations:

 * The bulky, large body structure of the komodo dragon gives rise to Gigantothermy whereby due to the lizard’s small surface area to volume ratio, it is able to retain more body heat than smaller organisms.


 * Large surfaces area and dark coloured scales allows it to absorb more heat.

Physiological Adaptations:

 * Sharp claws to dig
 * Body temperature drops to 20°C at night and can reach up to 40°C during the day

Behavioural Adaptations:

 * The Komodo dragon burrows into shelters to keep warm at night when the environment is colder or during the rainy season. During the day, the burrow can keep it cool.


 * During the day they spend a lot of time on the sun to heat themselves.


 * Spend the hottest time of the day in the shade to prevent hyperthermia


 * Immerse snout up to the eyes in water which is sucked up. This not only hydrated the komodo dragon but also cools the body.
 * Panting used to prevent extreme overheating. Mouth is held open and gulag (scaly) region of the throat is inflated with air. Air is then expelled shakily