What characteristic does the Family Elapidae classification imply for Naja nivea regarding its dentition?
Answer
Fixed, short fangs located at the front of the mouth
Placement within the Family Elapidae is a significant biological indicator for the Yellow Cobra (*N. nivea*). Members of the Elapidae family share a fundamental morphological trait concerning their venom apparatus: they possess fixed fangs that are short in length and situated at the very front of the mouth structure. These specialized fangs are used to inject potent venom efficiently. This contrasts with other snake families, such as the Viperidae, which typically have long, hinged fangs located further back in the upper jaw that fold down when the mouth is opened to strike.
Related Questions
What does the specific epithet nivea translate to, stemming from Latin words nix or nivis?What characteristic does the Family Elapidae classification imply for Naja nivea regarding its dentition?What feature distinguishes the subgenus Uraeus, to which Naja nivea belongs?What is the primary reason the common visual identification of Naja nivea can mislead observers unfamiliar with taxonomy?What is the origin of the genus name Naja used for the Yellow Cobra?What specific venom components characterize Naja nivea toxicity affecting neurological function?What taxonomic level follows Class Reptilia in the formal classification hierarchy of the Cape Cobra?What is the approximate measured mouse subcutaneous LD50 range for Naja nivea venom?Which other species is explicitly grouped with Naja nivea in the subgenus Uraeus?Why might the Latin name nivea have been assigned despite the snake’s common yellow appearance?