How does the tuatara digest its food?

The tuatara, a reptile native to New Zealand, has a unique digestive process that involves a slow metabolism. It primarily feeds on insects, small vertebrates, and plant matter, using its sharp beak-like teeth to grasp and tear food. Once ingested, the food is broken down in the stomach, where digestive acids and enzymes work to further digest it. The tuatara's digestive system is adapted for efficiency, allowing it to extract nutrients over an extended period, which is crucial given its cold-blooded nature and slower metabolic rate.