Why Lizards Don't Run Marathons

Lizards exhibit a unique running and breathing pattern due to evolutionary constraints. They cannot run and breathe simultaneously because both actions use the same muscles. This limitation is an evolutionary leftover from their ancestors who transitioned from water to land. Over time, lizards and other tetrapods have developed various adaptations to overcome these constraints. For instance, monitor lizards use guller pumping to breathe while running. Other tetrapods, like mammals and birds, have evolved different mechanisms to separate breathing from movement, enhancing their efficiency on land.

Why can't some lizards run and breathe at the same time?

• They have a limited lung capacity.

• Their chest muscles are used for both actions.

• They lack the necessary brain coordination.

• Their heart rate is too slow.

What evolutionary challenge did early tetrapods face when moving from water to land?

• Adapting to colder temperatures.

• Avoiding land predators.

• Breathing while moving on land.

• Finding food sources on land.

How do monitor lizards manage to breathe while running?

• They have a faster heart rate.

• They use guller pumping.

• They stop frequently to catch their breath.

• They have larger lungs.

Which muscle helps mammals breathe more effectively on land?

• The diaphragm muscle.

• The abdominal muscle.

• The pectoral muscle.

• The intercostal muscle.

What adaptation helps birds breathe more efficiently while moving?

• Increasing their lung size.

• Reducing their body weight.

• Developing stronger chest muscles.

• Changing their locomotive posture.