An animal which possesses scales nares and a backbone is likely to be a

Analyze the question The question asks which animal has three features: scales, nares (nostrils), and a backbone (vertebrate).

Explain the concept

• Backbone: All four options (toad, lizard, rat, bat) are vertebrates, so this feature doesn't separate them.
• Nares: These are the nostrils. All four animals have them, so this doesn't separate them either.
• Scales: This is the deciding feature. Scales that are dry and horny are characteristic of reptiles.

Show the solution

• A. Toad is an amphibian. It has moist, smooth or warty skin with no scales.
• B. Lizard is a reptile. Its body is covered with dry, horny scales, and it has nostrils and a backbone.
• C. Rat is a mammal. It has fur or hair, not scales (the tail has scale-like skin, but the body is covered in hair).
• D. Bat is a mammal. It has fur and wings made of skin membrane, with no scales.

Only the lizard fits all three features.

Answer: B. lizard.

Exam tip: Match skin covering to class:

• Amphibians: moist, smooth skin
• Reptiles: dry scales
• Birds: feathers
• Mammals: hair or fur
• Fish: scales (moist, usually with a slimy layer)

When a question mentions scales and the options don't include a fish, look for the reptile.