What does the Latin meaning of *humilis* in the Western Blind Snake’s scientific name, *Rena humilis*, signify about its lifestyle?
Answer
Small or ground-dwelling
The scientific binomial *Rena humilis* directly reflects the snake's adaptation to its environment. The genus name *Rena* relates to terms meaning 'slender' and 'blind', describing physical attributes. However, the species epithet, *humilis*, is Latin and carries the meaning of being 'small' or, more relevantly to its habit, 'ground-dwelling.' This choice of nomenclature underscores that the snake's entire body plan and behavioral adaptations are optimized for living beneath the surface.
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