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Which habitats can reptiles occupy on land and in water?

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A painted turtle (Chrysemys picta) with a dark shell and red and yellow markings rests on a rock near water, surrounded by green aquatic plants. — reptile Painted turtle (*Chrysemys picta*).

Reptiles are highly adaptable animals that occupy a vast array of habitats across the globe, ranging from the open sea to high-altitude mountain regions.1

Aquatic Habitats

Many reptiles are fully or semi-aquatic:
* Marine Environments: Some species, such as the yellow-bellied sea snake, spend their entire lives in the open ocean. Others, including sea turtles, inhabit coastal waters, estuaries, and coral reefs.1
* Freshwater Environments: Snakes, crocodiles, and certain lizards thrive in diverse freshwater systems, including large rivers, lakes, and small mountain streams.1

Terrestrial Habitats

On land, reptiles are widespread and have evolved to survive in varied environments:
* Forests and Grasslands: Turtles, snakes, and lizards are common inhabitants of forests and grasslands.1
* Deserts: Reptiles are often the most conspicuous animals in arid regions, where they have adapted to obtain necessary moisture directly from their food sources.12

Because they are ectothermic, their ability to occupy these habitats is largely dependent on the temperature of the surrounding environment, which they regulate by shuttling between sunlight and shade.1