Ophisaurus
- noun
- /ˌɒfɪˈsɔːrəs/
- Specialized
:
Ophisaurus
- Scientists recently discovered a new species within the Ophisaurus genus in Southeast Asia.
Examples
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The Ophisaurus is often mistaken for a snake because of its long, limbless body.
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Unlike true snakes, Ophisaurus retain remnants of ear openings and eyelids.
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Look at that Ophisaurus basking in the sun!
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The Ophisaurus can often be found in grasslands.
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The Ophisaurus is often mistaken for a snake because of its elongated body and lack of legs.
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In southern regions, you might encounter an Ophisaurus basking in the sun, blending in with its surroundings.
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Many people are surprised to learn that the Ophisaurus, despite its serpent-like appearance, is a type of lizard.
Synonyms
1
9.2
A legless lizard that looks like a snake, has eyelids and ear openings, and can grow its tail again
A legless lizard with a long tail that breaks off and regrows to escape predators
An animal like a lizard but without legs that looks like a snake
Surface Forms
Etymology
Ophisaurus comes from Greek words ophis 'snake' and sauros 'lizard', the same sauros you see in dinosaur. So an Ophisaurus is a 'snake-lizard', which explains why these lizards look like snakes but are true lizards.