Due to the fact that many lizards and amphibians are purely insectivorous I am curious as to whether or not they are able to digest chitin. I have read (in my biochemistry text) that since chitin is similar to cellulose that vertebrates are unable to digest chitin. Yet looking around I have noticed that some studies are being done that show that some sea birds and definitely bacteria can digest chitin. Is there any evidence of a symbiosis with bacteria that allows for digestion of chitin? Is there any evidence of chitinases in the various insectivorous herps? I am just beginning to explore this idea and just wanted to throw it out and see what kind of thoughts are floating around out there. Thanks in advance for you responses.

Bryan

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