What characteristic distinguishes the head scale arrangement of *R. humilis* when compared to the similar New Mexico Threadsnake?

Answer

*R. humilis* possesses only one scale between the ocular scales, whereas the other species has three

Minute morphological traits are critical for distinguishing closely related species, even those geographically proximate, such as *R. humilis* and the New Mexico Threadsnake. The specific difference highlighted involves the configuration of the scales surrounding the eye region. In *R. humilis*, there is a distinct count of only one scale positioned directly between the two ocular scales (the scales covering the eyes). Conversely, the New Mexico Threadsnake exhibits a higher count, possessing three scales situated in that same inter-ocular position. This small difference in scale counts provides a reliable method for field identification when examining the head structure of captured specimens.

What characteristic distinguishes the head scale arrangement of *R. humilis* when compared to the similar New Mexico Threadsnake?

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