The herpetology is the specialization of the zoology focused on reptile study . In the etymology of the term we find the Greek word herpeton, which can be translated just as "reptile" .
Reptiles, meanwhile, are animals that, when moving, rub the surface with your belly . This is because their legs are very short or even because they directly lack them. Another peculiarity of these vertebrate species of pulmonary respiration is that their temperature is variable.
Herpetology experts are dedicated to analyzing reptiles . They also investigate amphibians , which are animals that first breathe through gills and are aquatic and then, when they grow up, they become aerial and adopt pulmonary respiration.
This scientific discipline is of enormous importance to the human being . The toxins that produce certain reptiles, for example, are used in the field of medicine. On the other hand, since amphibians tend to register a high sensitivity to pollution and ecosystem changes, they provide interesting information about the state of the environment.
It can be said that herpetology, in short, focuses on the biology of the vipers , the crocodiles , the turtles , the frogs , the toads and other animals, always belonging to the group of reptiles and amphibians. Their explorations and inquiries allow to generate knowledge about the genetics, taxonomy, evolution and geographical distribution of these creatures.
Numerous museums , foundations and universities have departments or areas of herpetology. There are also institutions and associations that bring together professionals in the sector.
