Anguids

Anguids are a family of lizards belonging to the infraorder Anguimorpha, commonly known as slow worms or glass lizards. They are characterized by their elongated, snake-like bodies, often with reduced or absent limbs. This limbless or nearly limbless condition is a form of adaptation for burrowing or an environment with dense vegetation. Despite their appearance, anguids are true lizards and possess key reptilian features such as eyelids and external ear openings, which are absent in snakes.

The family Anguidae is found in various parts of the world, including North America, Europe, Asia, and North Africa. They inhabit a range of environments, from forests and grasslands to deserts and wetlands. Their diet typically consists of insects, small invertebrates, and sometimes small vertebrates. Anguids are known for their ability to autotomize, or shed, their tails as a defense mechanism to distract predators. The tail will often regenerate, though the new tail may look different from the original.

Reproduction in anguids varies, with some species laying eggs and others giving birth to live young. The degree of limb reduction also varies significantly within the family, with some species retaining well-developed limbs while others are completely limbless. This diversity in morphology and habitat has led to considerable research into their evolutionary relationships and adaptations.