What evolutionary conclusion is supported by *H. platurus* belonging to Family Elapidae despite its pelagic life?

Answer

The core Elapid traits, including the specialized venom machinery, were inherited prior to the evolutionary split leading to its complete specialization in oceanic existence.

The classification of the Yellow-Bellied Sea Snake within Elapidae, a family predominantly known for terrestrial members like cobras, offers significant insight into its evolutionary path. Since this snake never comes ashore to breed or digest, the retention of the advanced, fixed-fang venom apparatus suggests that the fundamental traits defining the Elapid family were already firmly established in the lineage before that lineage committed to a fully marine existence. This indicates that the venom delivery system was an inherited prerequisite, later co-opted for its specialized pelagic role, rather than evolving *after* it became exclusively sea-dwelling.

What evolutionary conclusion is supported by *H. platurus* belonging to Family Elapidae despite its pelagic life?

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