Among the different functions of epidermis, the most important role is to limit the exchange of water and electrolytes between the organism and its environment. In this context reptiles have attracted attention because they possess scales. Sweat glands are absent in reptiles and water loss in the form of vapour is passive through the respiratory system, but mainly through the skin. The water loss from skin is controlled or limited by the presence of scales.
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Joseph et al. (2007) studied this question.