Copies of author's previously published articles inserted. / Bibliography: leaves 89-123. / iv, 123, [21] leaves, [21] plates : col. ill. ; 30 cm. / Title page, contents and abstract only. The complete thesis in print form is available from the University Library. / The aims of this study are to morphologically examine the structure of the Hardorian gland within major squamate clades and to infer its potential role as a source of secretion for the squamate VNO. The thesis identifies some evolutionary trends in Harderian gland, olfactory mucosae and VNO structure across a range of taxa. Representative species exhibiting olfactory (Gekkota) or vomerolfactory (Serpentes) specialisation and generalised nasal chemosensory adaptation (Scincomorpha) are examined. / Thesis (Ph.D.)--University of Adelaide, Dept. of Anatomical Sciences, 1997