What is the key characteristic of Worm Snake scales aiding subterranean movement?
Answer
Smooth
A critical feature shared across the *Carphophis* species, essential for their underground lifestyle, is that their scales are smooth. This smoothness is functional; unlike keeled scales, which possess a ridge running down the center, smooth scales allow the snake to navigate through soil and soft substrate with significantly reduced friction. This reduction in drag enables the snake to move through dense material with greater efficiency, conserving vital energy required for its constant burrowing activities. This physical attribute is highlighted as a primary factor supporting their fossorial life, contrasting strongly with snakes that have rougher scale textures.
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