How are the scales described generally on the body of the Cape Cobra, contrasting it with many vipers?
Answer
Smooth scales, lacking keeled structures.
The body scales covering *Naja nivea* are characteristically smooth. This feature contributes significantly to the snake's sleek profile, which is advantageous for rapid movement, especially across open terrain common in its Southern African habitats. This smooth integument stands in contrast to many members of the viper family, which often possess keeled scales, giving their skin a rougher, duller texture. Although specialized scale arrangements on the head are used for technical classification, the overall smoothness of the body is a key physical trait of this elapid.
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