Introduction: Understanding reptile hearts

Reptiles are a diverse group of animals that includes lizards, snakes, turtles, and crocodilians. One of the defining features of reptiles is their unique heart anatomy. Unlike mammals, reptiles have a three-chambered heart with two atria and one ventricle. However, some reptiles, such as birds and crocodilians, have evolved a four-chambered heart that is more similar to that of mammals. This article will explore which group of reptiles has a four-chambered heart, why this is important, and how it has evolved over time.

What is a four-chambered heart?

A four-chambered heart is a type of heart that has four distinct chambers: two atria and two ventricles. This is in contrast to a three-chambered heart, which has two atria and one ventricle. The left atrium and ventricle of a four-chambered heart are responsible for pumping oxygenated blood to the body, while the right atrium and ventricle pump deoxygenated blood to the lungs. This separation of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood allows for more efficient oxygenation of the body, enabling animals to have higher metabolic rates and more active lifestyles.