Question

Large size scales fully extended from side to side on the belly are characteristics of
A. Krait and Sea snake
B. Cobra and Python
C. Rat snake and Cobra
D. Python and Krait

Answer 1

Snakes belong to class reptilia. The unique characteristics of reptiles are dry skin, the body is divided into head, neck, trunk, and tail, three-chambered heart, cold-blooded. Like any reptiles, the snake body is also covered with scales.

Complete Answer:
In snakes, scales are made of folds of the epidermis and dermis. However, the scales themselves are epidermal in origin. Variation in the distribution of scales on the body of snakes occurs, for example, enlarged head shields, a series of rows of small dorsal scales cover the body and tail dorsally and laterally, and larger and wider ventral scales provide support and protection ventrally.

One of the ways that are used for the identification of venomous and non-venomous snakes is by observing the rows of scales under the belly of a snake. If the snake has a double row of scales, this means it is a non-venomous snake. On the other hand, if the snake has a single row of scales, this means it is a venomous snake and all of the venomous snakes have a single row of scales down the whole
length of its body.

The scales of snakes occur in a variety of shapes. The rat snake is a non-venomous snake having a broader head and thinner neck. Cobra is a venomous snake. The rat snakes and cobras both possess scales that are as broad as they are long extending from side to side on the belly.

Thus, the correct option is C) Rat snake and Cobra.

Note: It is to be noted that snakes shed their skin to allow for further growth and to remove parasites that may have attached to their old skin. Shedding of scales is called ecdysis.