In this article we will discuss about Reptiles:- 1. Definition and Origin of Reptiles 2. History of Reptiles 3. Characteristic Features 4. Classification. Definition and Origin of Reptiles: Reptiles may be defined as "cold-blooded vertebrates, breathe by lungs throughout their existence, and having the body covered with scales or scutes. A basioccipital bone is present in the skull which articulates [...]
In this article we will discuss about the structure of snakes. Due to fossorial adaptation, snakes show many peculiar features (Fig. 8.20). External Features: (i) The body of snakes is extremely elongated and cylindrical. (ii) The limbs are absent, except in certain genera where traces of posterior limbs are present at the base of the tail and bear conical claws [...]
The following points highlight the three major poisonous components in a snake. The components are: 1. Poison Gland 2. Poison Ducts 3. Fangs. Snake: Poisonous Components # 1. Poison Gland: The poison glands or venom glands (Fig. 8.29), are situated one on either side of the upper jaw, mainly in the space between the eye and the angle of the [...]