To which genus does the Zebra Cobra belong, confirming its identity as a true cobra?
Answer
Naja
The classification of the Zebra Cobra under the genus *Naja* definitively establishes it as a true cobra. This taxonomic grouping is crucial because it signifies fundamental anatomical and evolutionary relationships shared with other true cobras, most notably reflected in the broad structure of the hood display. In contrast, the Rinkhals is classified under *Hemachatus*, which means it is not considered a true cobra, despite sharing the ability to spit venom and often having a dark coloration. Understanding the genus membership, resting on skeletal and scale morphology, is key to separating this species from its superficially similar counterparts.
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