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Posted by eyespy on August 27, 2002 at 08:47:19:
In Reply to: I never saw that before!!!more posted by Flavia Guimaraes on August 27, 2002 at 07:18:16:
The nictitating membrane (3rd eyelid) is a design feature in all species of iguanas, and most lizards as well. Most geckos do not have the membrane, they have a fixed lens over their eye much like a snake.
If a lizard doesn't have the third eyelid, then it does not have a supply of moisture for the eye and must be able to lick the eye in order to lubricate it and remove foreign bodies. The nictitating membrane is mechanical protection against an eye poke, as xta said. It also takes the place of the conjunctiva that we mammals have, the "moisture factory" and immune system of the eye. It sure sounds useful!
Ever see your igs lick their eyeballs, Flavia? If not, they have that membrane but are confident enough nothing will poke their eyes that they are not allowing it to cover the eye itself and it's lurking inside the outer lids.
