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The Komodo Dragon — Reading Comprehension

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MS-LS4-D
MS-LS1-1

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This science reading passage, titled "The Komodo Dragon: A Giant Among Lizards," introduces students to one of the world's most iconic and unique reptiles. Aligned with NGSS Life Science standards, particularly MS-LS4-D (Biodiversity and Humans) and MS-LS4-C (Adaptations), the passage highlights the Komodo Dragon's status as the largest lizard and its formidable presence as an apex predator in its native Indonesian island habitat. It details its physical characteristics, ambush hunting strategy, unique sense of smell using its forked tongue, and the dangerous nature of its bite. The text also emphasizes its critically endangered status due to habitat loss and other threats, underscoring the vital importance of conservation efforts to protect this magnificent monitor lizard and preserve global biodiversity. This resource is excellent for fostering reading comprehension, expanding vocabulary related to animal adaptations and ecosystems, and encouraging awareness about endangered species and their unique roles.

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Imagine encountering a creature that looks like it stepped out of a prehistoric era – a giant, scaly lizard with a powerful build. This is the Komodo Dragon, the largest and heaviest lizard on Earth! These awe-inspiring unique animals are truly apex predators in their island homes in Indonesia.

Komodo Dragons are found only on a few islands in Indonesia, most notably Komodo Island, Rinca, Flores, Gili Motang, and Padar. Here, they rule their rugged, dry forest habitat as the top of the food chain. Adult Komodo Dragons can grow up to 10 feet long and weigh over 300 pounds, making them incredibly formidable. Their bodies are covered in tough, scaly skin, and they possess powerful limbs, sharp claws, and a long, muscular tail that is as long as their body.

As skilled carnivores, Komodo Dragons are ambush predators, lying in wait to surprise their prey. Their diet includes deer, wild boar, and even water buffalo. While they have sharp, serrated teeth, their bite is particularly dangerous due to toxic bacteria in their saliva, which can lead to severe infections in their victims, weakening them over time. They also have an excellent sense of smell, using their forked tongues to "taste" the air for signs of food, even from miles away.

Despite their fearsome nature, the Komodo Dragon is an endangered species. Their population is small and isolated, primarily threatened by habitat loss due to human encroachment and climate change, which affects their prey base.Dedicated conservation efforts are vital to protect these magnificent monitor lizards and ensure the survival of this iconic part of biodonesian heritage.

Fun Fact: Komodo Dragons can eat up to 80% of their body weight in a single meal!

What is the Komodo Dragon known for being?

Smallest lizardFastest lizardLargest lizardOnly flying lizard

Where are Komodo Dragons found?

AustraliaIndonesiaAfricaSouth America

What kind of predator is a Komodo Dragon?

HerbivoreAmbush predatorFish-eaterInsectivore

What makes their bite dangerous?

ElectrocutionToxic bacteria in salivaParalysis venomSuper strength

How do Komodo Dragons "taste" the air?

With their earsWith their noseWith their forked tongueWith their skin

What is a major threat to Komodo Dragons?