What anatomical feature prevents efficient terrestrial locomotion in the Yellow-Bellied Sea Snake?
Answer
Lack of broad, single row of ventral scales
The physical structure of the Yellow-Bellied Sea Snake is highly specialized for its marine existence, which severely compromises its movement on land. Unlike many terrestrial snakes that possess broad, overlapping ventral scales which provide the necessary friction and grip to push against the ground, *H. platurus* has only a small, single row of belly scales. This anatomical limitation makes terrestrial crawling exceedingly difficult, if not impossible, rendering the snake effectively helpless and highly exposed if environmental forces like storms force it ashore. They are built primarily for paddling and drifting.
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