Herptiles.net - Dictionary of Herpetocultural Terms




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Anuran: Any amphibian (class Amphibia) of the order Anura, which includes the frogs, toads and treefrogs. An old name for this order is Salientia.
Aposematic colouration: A type of colouration or pattern on an organism that uses bright colours to warn potential predators that the animal is toxic.
Aquatic: Describes an organism that live primarily in water.
Dewlap: A fold of skin on the throat (sometimes extending to chest) found mainly in iguanine lizards, which can usually be extended by a cartilage rod during threat or courtship displays.
Diurnal: Describes an animal that is naturally active during daylight hours.
Lamella: A thin, flat structure of tissue. Plural, lamellae.
Nocturnal: Describes an animal that is naturally active during night hours.
Semi-aquatic: Describes an organism that spends significant amounts of time both on land an in water.
STL: "Snout to tail length," the length of the animal from the tip of its snout to the tip of its tail.
SVL: "Snout to vent length," the length of the animal from the tip of its snout to the vent, i.e. the length of the animal not including the tail.
Photoperiod: The period of daylight hours during a 24-hour period.
Terrestrial: Describes an animal that predominantly lives on land, or lives and dwells on the ground.
Wild type: When describing genetic traits, this refers to the form of the trait most common in the wild population. Considering morphs in various herp species, "wild type" is often used to describe the appearance of the animal that is closest to that of wild members of the species.

#.#.#- sex ratio, a key used for describing the amount of animals of the same species: # of males. # of females. # of animals of undetermined sex.

Aberrant- not typical, abnormal. When concerning genetic traits, aberrant refers to any trait that is not the wild type.
Acrodont dentition- the animal's teeth are fused to the inner surface of the jaw bones.
AFT- abbreviation for African fat-tailed gecko, Hemitheconyx caudicinctus.
Agamid- any lizard of the family Agamidae. Agamids are Old World lizards.
Albanism- an aberrant, hereditary colour trait. Albanism in mammals typically applies to the lack of melanin (dark pigment) throughout the body, caused by the absence of or handicapping of the melanin-producing enzyme, tyrosinase. In other animals, it can be used to describe a genetic lack of melanin (like in mammals), or a complete lack of pigmentation.
Albino- an animal that is genetically incapable of producing pigmentation. Albino mammals typically lack only melanin. Also can be used as an adjective (ex: an albino leopard gecko. Or, that snake is an albino).
Allele- one of several variations of a gene for a certain trait, located as a pair in each chromosome. Pairs are formed by inheriting one from each parent.
Alligator- large, semi-aquatic predator crocodilians of the family Crocodylidae, subfamily Alligatorinae. Alligators can be distinguished from the closely-related crocodiles by their shorter, broader snouts. There are only two species of alligator, the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) and the Chinese alligator (Alligator sinensis).
Alligator roll- also called crocodile roll. A sideways-rolling behaviour performed by an iguana (typically a green iguana, Iguana iguana) to escape something's hold.
Ambient temperature- the overall, or "average" temperature of an enclosure.
Amelanism- an inheritable trait where the body produces less melanin, synonym for hypomelanism.
Amelanistic- describes an animal that produces less melanin than typical for that species.
Amphibian- a word from Greek roots meaning "double life." Amphibians are ectothermic animals that begin life as a larva (for amphibians, the larva is called a tadpole), then later metamorphose into their adult form (although there are some exceptions, some species do not undergo metamorphosis). Frogs, toads, newts, salamanders and caecilians are all amphibians.
Analgesic- a pain-relieving drug. Can be given in an injection, orally or topically, depending on its form.
Anerythrism- an inheritable trait where the body does not produce erythrin (a red/purple pigment).
Anerythristic- describes an animal that does not produce its normal amount of red pigment.
Anole- a lizard of the subfamily Polychrotinae. These are relatively small lizards which have adhesive lamellae on their toes that allow them to climb most surfaces, and dewlaps for visual communication.
Aposematic colouration- natural colouration on an animal that is meant to warn predators.
Arboreal- describes a creature that either lives entirely or spends most of its time in trees.
Aspirate- inhaling liquid into the lungs.
Aquatic: Describes an organism that live primarily in water.
Ataxia- loss of muscle coordination.
ARAV- The Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians. An association whose members are qualified reptile and amphibian veterinarians. Their website is located at http://www.arav.org.
Ascarid- also called roundworms, these are common reptile parasites.
Autotomy- a defense mechanism where a limb, usually the tail, is dropped. Verb, to autotomize.

Backslapping- a behaviour typical of relaxed green iguanas (Iguana iguana), where the lizards rests on its chest and venter, with its forelimbs stretched out behind itself.
Bask- laying below an overhead heat and light source (i.e.: the sun) to regulate body temperature and absorb ultraviolet radiation, which is necessary for digestion and calcium metabolism.
Beak- bony piece of mouth in chelonians and some tadpoles.
Brille- the lens-like eyelid of snakes and many gecko species.
Buccal- inside the mouth.
Bufagin- a chemical found in the poison secreted by certain toads. Toxicity is manifested by diarrhea, vomitting, cardiac irregularity and heart failure.
Bufodienolide- a toxin found in toads. Also called bufogenin.
Bufogenin- a toxin found in toads. Also called bufodienolide.
Bufotalin- a toxin that causes vomitting and cardiac arrest. It it present in the skin and saliva of Bufo vulgaris, the common toad.
Bufotenine- a hallucenogenic chemical found in the poison secreted by certain toads.
Bufotoxin- a milky, viscous poison secreted by the skin (or paratoid glands) of toads, specifically of the genus Bufo, the typical or true toads. The composition of the poison varies on the species of toad, but often contains components such as bufotenine (a hallucinogen), serotonin (a vasoconstrictor), bufagin, bufogenin and bufotalin.

Caiman- a small, tropical, American crocodilian resembling an alligator (genus Caiman). Also called cayman.
Calcium- a metallic element represented by the symbol Ca, necessary for the development of bones and teeth, and for nervous and muscular system functions. Calcium can be found in both animal and plant matter (mostly dark, leafy green vegetables such as collard greens). It is also sometimes found as a powdered or pill supplement in the form of calcium carbonate (CaCO3). Most reptiles and amphibians require a calcium to phosphoros ratio between 1:1 and 2:1.
Carapace- top part of a chelonian's shell.
Carnivorous/carnivore- a creature that eats primarily other animal matter (meat).
Cartilage- strong, elastic body tissue.
Castration- surgical removal of the testes. May also be called neutering.
Caudal- pertains to the tail.
Cayman- a small, tropical, American crocodilian resembling an alligator (genus Caiman). Also called caiman.
Captive born- abbreviated as "CB." Means that the animal was born in captivity. However, this does not guarantee that the animal's parents bred in captivity. See also "Captive born-and-bred."
Captive born-and-bred: Abbreviated as "CBB." Captive bred-and-born implies that the animal's parents bred in captivity, and the animal was not harvested from a wildcaught gravid female. The distinction may be necessary because some animals raised from harvested females are sold as captive born.
Ceramic heat emitter- sometimes abbreviated as "CHE." A bulb-shaped heating device that emits infrared light, which is invisible to the human (and presumably reptile and amphibian) eye. It is a useful heating device, as it emits heat but not light.
Chelonian- order of reptiles comprising of turtles, tortoises and terrapins.
Chemoreceptor- a sense organ that is responsive to chemical stimuli.
Chitin- (adj. chitinous) a tough, semitransparent substance found in the exoskeleton of some insects, arthopods, and in the cell walls of some fungi.
Chromatophore- a pigment-containing cell found in the skin. In some lizards, frogs, octopi and squid, the cells may expand or contract to change the appearance of the animal's colour.
Chromosome- a rod-shaped, gene-carrying structure found in the cell nucleus. It carries genes that determine sex and traits that an organism inherits from its parents.
CL- abbreviation for "carapace length," the length of a chelonian's carapace from head end to tail end.
Class- a major category in taxonomic classification of organisms, contains organisms that are related. It is comprised of a group of orders.
Cloaca- the opening of the gut in reptiles and amphibians (as well as birds, many fish and some invertebrates), where the urinary, intestinal and genital canals open into.
Co-dominant trait- a type of autosomal genetic trait that will appear if only one allele is present, but may show more completely if the animal is homozygous for the trait.
Cold-blooded- an outdated term used to describe animals that do not generate heat to maintain their body temperature. The proper word is ectothermic or poikilothermic.
Colubrid- A snake of the family Colubridae, which contains over 1000 species. Some constrict to kill prey, and the few venemous species are not dangerous to humans.
Conspecific- members of the same species.
Cranial- head area.
Crepuscular- describes a creature that is active at dawn and dusk.
Crest- ridge of spines, scales, bone, or skin found on neck, back, or tail.
Crocodile- large, semi-aquatic predator crocodilians of the family Crocodylidae, subfamily Crocodylinae. Crocodiles can be distinguished from the closely-related alligators by their longer, more tapered snout.
Crocodile roll- also called alligator roll. A sideways-rolling behaviour performed by an iguana (typically a green iguana, Iguana iguana) to escape something's hold.
Crocodilian- large, carnivorous reptile of the order Crocodylia. This group includes crocodiles, alligators, gavials, caimans and other extinct crocodilians. Crocodilians demonstrate more complex social behaviour than other reptiles, including some maternal instinct.
Cruciferous- describes any vegetable in the Brassica (cabbage) family, such as cabbage, broccoli, kale and collard greens. The majority of cruciferous vegetables contain significant amounts of goitrogens (goitrin, more specifically), which inhibit iodine absorption by the thyroid gland, and produce a goiter.

Dehydration- dangerous loss of body fluids. Chronic dehydration can lead to kidney damage.
Dermatophagy- the behaviour of an animal eating its own dead, shed skin. Many lizards perform dermatophagy, some species actually remove the skin themselves.
Dewlap- a fold of skin on the throat (sometimes extending to chest) found mainly in iguanine lizards, which can usually be extended by a cartilage rod during threat or courtship displays.
Digit- "toe," "finger."
Dihybrid- an organism (a hybrid) that is heterozygous for two genes. Each gene is represented by two different alleles (forms).
Dimorphism- describes when there are two different forms of one species, distinguished by colouration or other obvious traits.
Disinfect- inhibiting the growth of or killing microorganisms (mostly bacteria) on a non-living object, by using a disinfectant.
Diurnal- describes an animal that is naturally active during the day.
Dominant trait- a gene that will always be apparant if present in an animal. A trait carried on a dominant gene.
Dorsal- pertaining to the back or the back area.
Dorsolateral- pertaining to dorsal (back) and lateral (side) areas.
Dorsoventral- dorsal (back) and ventral (belly) areas.
Dysecdysis- abnormal or difficulty shedding of the skin in reptiles. It is usually caused by too cold or dry of an environment, or undernutrition.
Dystocia- the medical term for difficult birth (to the point that human intervention is needed), but with oviparous reptiles it applies to the animal being "egg-bound" (the eggs are retained in the body) so that they cannot properly be laid. Egg-binding can have many causes, but it is most often because the animal is not getting enough calcium (usually because the diet is improper or the animal is not getting enough UVB radiation). Ovoviviparous or viviparous reptiles can also suffer from dystocia.

Ecdysis- the process of shedding dead skin cells that are replaced by new ones, in reptiles and amphibians it is periodical.
Ectoparasite- a parasite that lives on the exterior of the host animal.
Ectotherm- "cold-blooded;" an animal that cannot regulate its own body temperature through internal means, but relies on its environment to regulate its body temperature. There are two kinds, the poikilothermic ectotherms whose body temperature fluctuates while they thermoregulate, and the homeothermic ectotherms who remain in an environment with a constant temperature (usually aquatic species).
Eft- the land-dwelling phase of a predominantly aquatic newt. Regional common name for certain newts in the UK.
Egg-bound- describes a female reptile suffering from dystocia.
Endoparasite- a parasite that lives inside the host animal.
Erythrin- red/purple pigment found in erythrophores (a type of chromatophore), pigment cells found in animal skin.
Erythrophore- a type of chromatophore found in animal skin that contains the red/purple pigment, erythrin.
Ethology- the science of studying animal behaviour in their natural habitat. It is often used to propose evolutionary explanations.
Eublepharine- any gecko of the sub-family Eublepharinae, also called true eyelid geckos. They are the only geckos that have true, moveable eyelids, and lack adhesive lamellae on their toes.
Exoskeleton- the hard, protective covering of an organism that provides protection and support of the body, such as in crustaceans, insects, armadillos and turtles.

Family- a taxonomic classification containing related organisms, comprises of one or more genera.
Femoral pores- a row of pores found on the "inner thigh" (the part of the leg corresponding to the femur bone) of some lizards, in both males and females. These porse are typically larger on males, and excrete a waxy substance, particularly during breeding season. They may be used during mating.
Fibrosis- the body's creation of fibre around long bones to attempt to support them when it must extract calcium from these bones due to a severe calcium deficiency.
Fibrous osteodystrophy-
Folivorous- feeds primarily on leaves.
Fossorial- living underground, burrows.
Fracture planes- weak points in the tail vertebrae where the tail would break when autotomized.
Frog- tailless, moist-skinned, web-footed, four-legged amphibians of the order Anura. They have powerful hind legs for jumping.
Froglet- a young frog, just after metamorphosis.

Gastrointestinal impaction- See "Impaction."
Gavial- Gavialis gangeticus, a narrow-snouted crocodilian that feeds primarily on fish and frogs, native to Borneo, India and Sumatra. Also called gharial.
Gecko- any lizard of the family Gekkonidae. Most geckos have immovable lens-like eyelids (brilles) and adhesive lamellae on the undersides of their toes that allow them to deftly climb most horizontal and vertical surfaces.
Gene- the unit that is capable of transmitting traits from one generation to the next. It is found on chromosomes in the form of DNA or RNA.
Genus- a taxonomic classification of closely related species. Plural, genera.
Gharial- Gavialis gangeticus, a narrow-snouted crocodilian that feeds primarily on fish and frogs, native to Borneo, India and Sumatra. Also called gavial.
Glottis- opening at the back of the tongue leading to the trachea.
Goiter- swelling of the thyroid gland, eyes may bulge and the animal may have an abnormally high metabolic rate. It is typically caused by an improper diet.
Goitrogen- an agent that produces goiter by inhibiting the body's absorption of iodine.
Gout- a disease where the body cannot properly metabolize uric acid, resulting in a high level of uric acid in the blood (hyperuricemia), which leads to the deposition of urates in and around the joints, liver, kidney and lungs. It is usually caused by improper diet, and is common in herbivorous or omnivorous animals that are fed unsuitably high amounts of protein (but can also occur in carnivorous animals).
Granuloma- a tumor-like mass caused by a chronic inflammatory or infectious condition.
Gravid- "pregnant." When a female is bearing eggs (fertile or infertile) or embryos. Gravidity is the state of being gravid.
Gular pouch- a pouch of skin between the two mandibles. Seen in some agamids, which inflate them with air to make themselves appear larger.
Gut-load- feeding prey animals nutritious food prior to offering them to animals, to raise their nutritional content.

Habitat- a natural or artificially created environment that is home to a given organism(s).
Hatchet mode- a term pertaining to giant green iguanas (Iguana iguana), referring to when an iguana flattens itself laterally, raises itself off the ground and extends its dewlap. This is a defense behaviour to make the iguana look larger, and is usually preparation to lunge, bite, or tail whip. Also called hatcheting.
Head bob- a lizard behaviour used for communication, particularly in iguanids and agamids, where the lizard "nods" its head. The intensity, speed and form of the head bob varies with the species and purpose of the head bob. "Shudder bobs" are particular to green iguana (Iguana iguana) keepers, and refer to a vigorous head bob with a side-to-side motion, which typically means the iguana is annoyed.
Heliothermic- (heliotherm) describes an ectotherm that warms itself by basking in an overhead heat source (naturally, the sun). Heliotherms are typically diurnal.
Hemipenes- male reproductive organs in snakes and lizards which are kept inverted inside the base of the tail until needed. Singular, hemipenis.
Hemotoxin- poison or venom that attacks the vasuclar system (vessels that carry blood through the body) by rupturing red blood cells.
Hepatic- liver-related.
Herbivorous/herbivore- describes a creature that feeds on plant matter.
Herp- abbreviation for herptile.
Herpetoculturist- a person who owns and/or breeds reptiles and/or amphibians.
Herpetologist- a biologist who specializes in reptiles and/or amphibians.
Herpetology- the science of studying reptiles and amphibians.
Herptile- a slang, collective term for reptiles and amphibians, typically used by herpetoculturists. Derived from the word "herpetology," the scientific study of reptiles and amphibians.
Heterozygous- an organism that contains two or more different versions of one of its genes, in the form of alleles. The appearance of this animal depends on the presence of a dominant gene. The appearance of the offspring depends on which version of the gene is inherited.
Hibernation- a dormant state, typically induced by seasonal changes (cooler temperatures, shorter photoperiod: winter). Marked by narcosis, reduced body temperature and metabolism.
Homozygous- having two identical alleles that control a certain trait.
Host- an animal or plants that harbours and provides sustenance for another organism (the parasite).
Humidity- a measure of water vapour in the air.
Husbandry- the care of any particular living thing.
Hybrid- a crossbreed between two different species. Most hybrids are impossible, many successful hybrids are born sterile (unable to reproduce).
Hygrometer- an instrument to measure the level of humidity.
Hypercalcemia- an abnormally high level of calcium in the blood. It can be caused by hypervitaminosis A or D, an excess of parathyroid hormone, hyperthyroidism, bone abnormalities, excessive consumption of calcium (or animal protein, in herbivorous lizards or chelonians), or other abnormalities causing excessive absorption of calcium in the intestines. Hypercalcemia may cause bone defects, shock, cardiac changes, and kidney failure caused by renal hypertension. The non-fatal symptoms may not be apparent until the condition is advanced and becoming life-threatening.
Hypermelanistic- describes an animal that has significantly more melanin (dark pigment) than what is typical to that species. Hypermelanism is often an inheritable trait.
Hyperthyroidism- excessive functional activity of the thyroid gland.
Hyperuricemia- abnormally high level of uric acid in the blood, which can lead to gout.
Hypervitaminosis- a condition caused by excessive intake of a given vitamin. Hypervitaminosis is more likely to occur with fat-soluble vitamins, A, D and E.
Hypervitaminosis A- an excess of vitamin A, caused by excessive intake of vitamin A. Can cause dermatitis, internal hemorrhaging and liver damage.
Hypervitaminosis D- an excess of vitamin D (cholecalciferol), caused by excessive ingestion of vitamin D. Too much vitamin D promotes excess calcium absoprtion, which can lead to hypercalcemia, and consequently, calcification of the arteries and abnormal bone growth. "Too much" exposure to the sun does not cause excessive production of vitamin D.
Hyperxanthic- an increased yellow colouration.
Hypocalcemia- an abnormally low level of calcium in the blood. It may be caused by improper diet, improper vitamin D (cholecalciferol) intake or synthesis, excessive consumption of phosphorous, an imbalance of parathyroid hormone and calcitonin. To compensate for low levels of calcium in the blood, the body will extract calcium from the bones (see metabolic bone disease).
Hypomelanistic- an animal that has less melanin (black skin pigmentation) than normal, synonym for amelanistic. In mammals, where melanin is usually the only pigment, hypomelanism is the same as albanism.
Hypothyroidism- the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones that regulate metabolism, resulting in lethargy, decreased appetite or anorexia, and reduced or halted growth (however fat may still be stored).
Hypovitaminosis- a condition caused by an insufficient intake of a given vitamin.
Hypovitaminosis A- a deficiency in vitamin A, typically caused by an insufficient diet. Hypovitaminosis A used to be common in captive chelonians, but as better diet and care information is available, it is now not as common. It may cause swelling of the eyes and eyelids (eventually blindness), abnormalities in mucous membranes, urinary stones and skin abnormalities (dryness and eruptions).
Hysterectomy- surgical removal of the uterus or uterine horns. The ovaries are typically also removed (and the shell gland, in the case of reptiles), and the procedure is called an ovariohysterectomy. The procedure may also be called a spay or neuter.

Iglet- a slang term for a hatchling or juvenile iguana.
Iguanid- any lizard of the family Iguanidae. Iguanids are New World lizards.
Impaction- may also be called an intestinal impaction or obstruction, refers to when a foreign object is blocking the intestine so that the animal has difficultly or cannot defecate. Impactions may be acute (caused by a single instance where something is ingested), or chronic (an accumulated impaction over a longer period of time). Impactions are often fatal if left untreated.
Inbreeding- the mating of closely related individuals of a species.
Inbreeding depression- the occurance of genetic deformities in offspring that have been inbred for at least several generations. "Malfunctioning" or "bad" genes pair up more frequently, resulting in offspring with physical deformities and/or increased susceptibilities to disease.
Insectivorous- (insectivore) describes an animal that feeds on insects.
Infraorder- a taxonomic classification of related organisms (subdivision of a suborder), contains one or more families within an order or sub-order.
Intestinal impaction- See "Impaction."
Intramuscular- describes an injection that is to be given into a muscle. Abbreviation, IM.
Intravenous- describes an injection that is to be given into a vein. Abbreviation, IV.

Jacobson's organ- a pit in the roof of the mouth of many lizards and snakes. Chemicals and particles in the air are picked up when the animal flicks its tongue, these are then deposited onto the organ so that the brain may interpret them. This allows the snake or lizard a sort of scent/taste sense. Also called the vomeronasal organ.
Juvenile- a young animal that has not reached sexual maturity.

Keeled- describes angled scales with a ridge in the center.
Kingdom- the highest classification for natural things. All natural objects are traditionally divided into one of the Kingdoms.

Lamella- a thin, flat structure of tissue. Plural, lamellae.
Lanceolate: Lancehead-shaped. Broad at the base and tapering to the tip.
Lateral- pertaining to the sides of the body.
Laterally compressed- flattened on its sides.
Lethargy- prolonged lapses into unconsciousness or drowsiness. Less active than normal.
Leucism- inheritable trait where there is a lack of melanin on the body, however the eyes do not lack melanin.
Line bred- a type of genetic trait that is developed by selective breeding of individuals with a certain degree of the wanted trait until the offspring look as desired.
Lizard- a reptile of the suborder Sauria (Lacertilia), within the order Squamata. Most have moveable eyelids, external ear openings, and four legs. Types of lizards include (but are not limited to) geckos (Gekkonidae), iguanas (Iguanidae), skinks (Scincidae), and others.

Mandible- lower jaw.
Maxilla- upper jaw.
Medial- center area of the body.
Melanin- a dark pigment that contains sulfur. It is responsable for dark colouration on animals (most obviously, black).
Melanism-an increased amount of black pigmentation (melanin) in the skin. This is an inheritable trait.
Melanistic- describes an animal which has abnormally excessive melanin production in the skin, and appears much darker than the norm for that species.
Metabolic bone diseasse- a group of diseases that have similar clinical manifestations, where the body must take calcium from the bones to compensate for a low level of calcium in the blood. The body creates fibrous deposits around the bones to compensate for their low density, resulting in a swollen, "bloated" appearance to long bones in the limbs, and a swollen, rubberiness to the jaw. The spine may also twist and deform. There are many possible causes, including poor diet, improper temperatures, lack of exposure to ultraviolet radiation, hormonal imbalances, or any combination of the above.
Metamorphosis- the process of an animal changing from larva to adult. Amphibians are examples of animals that go though metamorphosis.
Metazoan- an organism belonging to the zoological group Metazoa. Many are parasitic and can cause disease in captive reptiles and amphibians.
Mite- external parasites, arthopods of the order Acarina. They feed on the blood of their hosts (plant or animal), and species of mite are typical to a certain type of host or locality on a host. They are small organisms that may need some magnification to detect and they usually have transparent or semitransparent bodies.
Montane- describes an animal that mainly lives in mountain areas.
Morph- a superficial, genetic variation of the same species.
Mouth rot- a secondary infection, also called stomatitis or ulcerative stomatitis. Symptoms include sores (ulcers) in the mouth, and cheesy, seething yellowish or whitish saliva. Mouth rot indicates there is another infection elsewhere in the body.
Occiput- the posterior or caudal part of the skull that surrounds the spinal cord.
Osteoderm- a bony plate sometimes shaped like the overlying scale in the dermal layer of the skin. Found in crocodilians and some lizards.
Nares- plural of naris. Openings of the nasal cavity.
Necropsy- autopsy performed on a non-human animal.
Necrotic- describes dead skin or tissue from infections or burns.
Nematode- any worm of the class Nematoda. These are common disease-causing parasites in many animals, including reptiles and amphibians.
Neonate- a newborn or "infant" animal.
Neotenic- describes an animal that can reach sexual maturity while still in its larval stage.
Neuter- surgical removal of the testes or ovaries/shell gland and uterus/uterine horns. Also called castration (males) or ovariohysterectomy (females).
Neurotoxin- a poison that attacks the nervous system.
Newt- a small, semi-aquatic salamander (family Salamandridae) with a tail well-developed for swimming.
Nocturnal- describes an animal naturally active at night.
Nuchal- pertaining to the top (dorsal region) of the neck.

Ocular- pertaining to the eye or surrounding area.
Order- a taxonomic classification containing related families of organisms.
Osteomalacia- softening of the bones.
Outbreeding- breeding members of the same species that are not closely related to vary the genes in the offspring.
Oviparous- describes an animal that produces eggs that develop and hatch outside the body of the mother.
Ovoviviparous- describes an animal that reproduces by retaining the eggs inside the body for the duration of their incubation period, until they are ready to hatch and are laid. The offspring are encased in membranes, and get some nutrition from the mother.
Oxalate- any salt of oxalic acid, occurs naturally in plants. Oxalates bind to calcium in the digestive tract and render it unusable to the body.
Oxalic acid- a poisonous, dibasic acid found in many fruits and vegetables in the form of oxalates.

Parasite- an organism that lives off of another organism, in a way that is not beneficial or is harmful to the host.
Paratoid glands- a toad's glands that secrete viscous, white poison (bufotoxin). They are located on the top of the head, although vary slightly depending on the species. Some species have such well-developed glands that they can secrete poison as a projectile, such as the cane toad (Bufo marinus).
Parietal eye- a grayish, circular organ on the top of the head of some lizards, some snakes, and sphenodons (tuataras). This "eye" can detect light and shadows, it could be used to help the animal detect a predator approaching from overhead.
Parthenogenic/parthenogenesis- describes a species contains only females and is able to reproduce without males. The embryo can develop without being fertilized, although in some species, courtship between the females is required to trigger the asexual reproduction.
Particulate substrate- any substrate that consists of many small, "independant" particles, such as sand, dirt, woodchips, etc.
Per os- describes a medication that is to be given orally. "Per os" is Latin for "to give orally." Abbreviation, PO.
Phosphorus- an element represented by the symbol P. In the form of phosphates, it is an important component of bone, is involved in most metabolic processes, and is important for cell metabolism. Its use by the body is regulated by calcium and vitamin D (cholecalciferol). Reptiles should have a calcium to phosphorus ratio of 2 to 1.
Photoperiod- time of daylight in a 24 hour period.
Phylum- a major taxonomic group (into which animals are divided) made of up several classes.
Phytate- a chemical that binds to calcium, found in some plants. Also called inositolhexaphosphoric acid. It is a source of phosphorous for herbivores, but is indigestible to carnivores.
Piebald- a colour mutation where large parts of the body are lacking colour and pattern altogether, but patches of normal colouration and pattern are still present.
Pipping- impaling the shell membrane from within the egg.
Plastron- bottom part of a chelonian's shell.
Pleurodont dentition - the animal's teeth are attached to the inner surface of the jaw without being in a socket.
Poikilothermic- "cold-blooded," describes an animal that relies on its environment to regulate its body temperature. Synonym for ectothermic.
Posterior- Towards the tail end of the animal, opposite of anterior.
POTZ- abbreviation for "preferred optimal temperature zone."
Pre - prefix for before or in front of.
Preferred optimal temperature zone- the range of temperatures that an ectotherm's body functions properly at. This range is specific to different species. It is often abbreviated as "POTZ."
Prehensile - describes an appendage that is suited for climbing, grasping, holding or wrapping around objects. Often an arboreal creature's tail is prehensile (ex: Prehensile-tailed or monkey skink, Corucia zebrata).
Prolapse- a condition where an internal organ protrudes from a natural hole in the body, and stays outside the body. Prolapses require immediate veterinary treatment.
Protein- a molecule consisting of polypeptides, which are made of amino acids. Proteins are essential for a healthy diet.
Protozoan- a microscopic, single-celled organism belonging to the zoological group Protozoa. There are many protozoa that are endoparasites (live inside the animal) and cause illness in captive reptiles and amphibians.

Quick- the region in the centre of a claw or nail that contains the blood vessel and nerve.

Recessive trait- a trait carried by an allele that will not be apparant if coupled with a dominant trait. A trait carried on a recessive gene.
Renal- kidney-related.
Reptile- an ectothermic ("cold-blooded"), air-breathing, typically egg-laying vertebrate, with a bony skeleton and an outer covering of hardened scales or plates. The reptile class contains crocodilians, chelonians (turtles, tortoises and terrapins), snakes, lizards and tuataras (sphenodons).
Rostral- pertaining to the nose/rostrum.
Roundworm- see Ascarid.

Salamander- amphibians of the order Caudata that resemble lizards in basic appearance, however they have porous, moist skin, lack claws and have an aquatic, larval stage.
Salmonella- a species of bacteria that is often carried by poultry and reptiles. An infection of Salmonella is called salmonellosis. See the article on Salmonellosis.
Salt expulsion- the act of reptiles "snorting" to get rid of excess salt from their bodies. A rhinal salt gland (in the rostrum) excretes salts into the nasal passage that had built up in the body, the animal then exhales quickly and forcefully to "snort" out the salty residue. This residue is often called "snalt" by iguana owners.
Saponin- a group of chemicals (glycosides) found in many plant species. They are characterized by their property of forming durable foam when their watery solutions are shaken, their ability to lyse erythrocytes even in high dilutions, and their alygones are the compound sapogenin.
Scale- a small, rigid plate or structure on the skin of animals like reptiles, fish, some insects and the pangolin (a mammal).
Saxicolous- describes a creature that lives in and near rocky areas.
Scotophase- time of darkness in a 24 hour period.
Secondary nutritional hypoparathyroidism- another type of metabolic bone disease.
Semi- prefix for half.
Semi-aquatic- an animal that lives partly in water and partly on land.
Serotonin- a hormone and neurotransmitter found in many body tissues (such as blood platelets, central nervous system and intestional mucosa). Its physiological properties include the production of vasoconstriction, stimulation of smoother muscles and the inhibition of gastric secretion.
Seta- a slender, rigid yet springy organ or part of an organism. Plural, setae.
Sex ratio- a key used for describing a number of conspecific (of the same species) animals , of the format #.#.# (males. females.undetermined sex). For example, one male and two females would be expressed as 1.2. The digit for unsexed animals is not used if there are not any being mentioned.
Sexual dichromatism- species that are sexually dichromatic have noticeable colour differences between males and females.
Sexual dimorphism- species that are sexually dimorphic have largely noticeable physical differences between males and females. These animals tend to be "harem breeders," which means that a single male breeds with many females.
Snake- a legless reptile of the suborder Serpentes, order Squamata. Some species are venemous, all have immovable, lens-like eyelids called brilles, and all lack external ear openings.
sp.- abbreviation for species.
spp.- abbreviation for subspecies.
Species- a group of animals classified together that can successfully reproduce. This taxonomic group is below genus and above subspecies.
Sphenodon- Sphenodon punctatum, a reptile native to New Zealand, the only surviving member of the order Rhynchocephalia (all other species existed only in the Mesozoic era). Also called tuatara.
Spur- remnant of a hind leg found on large pythons and boas.
STL- abbreviation for the length of animal from snout to the tip of the tail.
Stomatitis- a secondary infection, also called mouth rot or ulcerative stomatitis. Symptoms include sores (ulcers) in the mouth, and cheesy, seething yellowish or whitish saliva. Stomatitis indicates there is another infection elsewhere in the body.
Subfamily- a taxonomic classification, a subdivision of a family of related organisms.
Suborder- a taxonomic classification of related organisms (subdivision of an order) that contains one or more families.
Subspecies- a sub-classification of a species that has distinct population variations, but can still interbreed. Subspecies may differ in distribution, appearance, feeding habits, or other superficial or behavioural traits.
Substrate- a non-living material in an environment on which an organism lives or grows on. Plural, substrata.
SVL- abbreviation for the length of the animal from the snout to vent.

Tadpole- the larval stage of amphibians. Most tadpoles have round bodies, feathery gills, a horny beak, and a long, paddle-like tail, until they begin metamorphosis.
Taxonomy- The science of classifying living organisms according to their physical characteristics.
Temperature gradient- range of temperatures in a specific area (ex.: the animal's enclosure).
Terrapin- any turtle of the family Emydidae. These are small, carnivorous, freshwater turtles with webbed feet and a retractable head.
Terrestrial- describes an animal that predominantly lives on land, or lives and dwells on the ground.
Tetrodotoxin- a neurotoxin found in the skin of animals like some newts, such as those in the Triturus genus.
Thermal gradient- range of temperatures within a closed area.
Thermoregulate- (thermoregulation) a behaviour necessary of ectothermic animals where the animal moves around the thermal gradient in order to achieve an optimal body temperature.
Thigmothermic- (thigmotherm) describes an animal that warms itself on surfaces that were previously warmed by the sun. Thigmothermic animals are typically nocturnal.
Toad- an amphibian of the family Bufonidae. Most toads have dry, warty skin, and live mostly on land (however they return to the water to breed).
Toadlet- a young toad, just after metamorphosis.
Torpor- lethargy or inactivity.
Tortoise- a chelonian (family Testudinidae) with a large, dome-shaped shell. They are long-lived, slow-moving and land-dwelling animals.
Trait- a characteristic that is genetically determined.
Tree frog- arboreal frogs of the family Hylidae, their toes are equipped with small, adhesive discs that allow them to climb most surfaces easily.
Tropidurid- any lizard of the family Tropiduridae, the neotropical ground lizards.
Tuatara- Sphenodon punctatum, a reptile native to New Zealand, the only surviving member of the order Rhynchocephalia (all other species existed only in the Mesozoic era). Also called sphenodon.
Tubercles- wart-like bumps on the skin.
Turtle- a reptile of the order Chelonia, possessing four legs, a bony beak, a tail and a shell. There are both water and land-dwelling varities of turtle.
Tympanum- in reptiles (except snakes), the tympanic membrane that can be seen in the ear opening.

Ulcerative stomatitis- a secondary infection, also called mouth rot or stomatitis. Symptoms include sores (ulcers) in the mouth, and cheesy, seething yellowish or whitish saliva. Stomatitis indicates there is another infection elsewhere in the body.
Ultraviolet- radiation wavelengths that are not visible to the human eye, they are just beyond the visible spectrum ("after" violet).
Under tank heating pad- sometimes abbreviated as "UTH." A heating element bound in some other material (often vinyl) as a pad, which is placed under or adhered to the bottom of an enclosure (usually an aquarium).
UVA- ultraviolet A radiation. A different wavelength of ultraviolet rays that is not visible to the human eye, wavelength between 320-380nm.
UVB- ultraviolet B radiation. A different wavelength of ultraviolet rays that is not visible to the human eye, wavelength between 280-320nm.
UVC- ultraviolet C radiation. A different wavelength of ultraviolet rays that is not visible to the human eye, wavelength between 180-280nm.

Venom- a poisonous liquid injected by an animal through a bite or a sting, either to defend itself or to immobilize prey.
Venomous- describes an animal that produces venom, and is capable of delivering a poisonous bite or sting either for predatory or defensive motives.
Vent- opening of the cloaca.
Venter- belly/stomach region.
Ventral- pertaining to the belly/stomach region.
Viviparous- reproduces by giving live birth.

Wild caught- sometimes abbreviated as "WC." Means that the animal was captured from the wild.
Wild type- when describing genetic traits, "wild type" refers to the natural form of the trait.

Xanthic- describes an inheritable, physical trait featuring increased/excessive amounts of yellow skin pigment.





Last modified: Wednesday, August 11, 2004