Surprising Discovery About Komodo Dragons from Scientists

Scientists have determined that there is a layer of iron in the serrated tips of Komodo dragon teeth that helps them easily tear apart their prey.

Researchers from King's College London in the UK used advanced chemical and structural imaging techniques to obtain new information about the teeth of the Komodo dragon, which is considered the largest lizard in the world. Through their examinations, scientists discovered that the serrated parts of the species' teeth are covered with a layer rich in iron.

HELPS MAINTAIN THE SHARPNESS OF THE TEETH

The researchers noted that a small amount of iron is also found in the teeth of many reptiles, including monitor lizards and some crocodile species. However, they found that this layer is concentrated in the tips of the Komodo dragon's teeth, giving them an orange color and helping to maintain their sharpness. Scientists emphasized that this feature assists the Komodo dragon in easily tearing apart its prey, and it has not been observed in any other carnivorous reptile before.

ONLY 3,458 REMAIN IN NATURE

Komodo dragons are only found in Indonesia, specifically in the national park of the same name and on the islands of Flores and some others. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, there are only 3,458 Komodo dragons left in the wild. These reptiles can reach lengths of up to 3 meters and weigh up to 90 kilograms. They are endangered due to human activities and the destruction of their habitats caused by climate change. The details of the study were published in the journal "Nature Ecology & Evolution."