What is the origin of the genus designation *Cerastes*, referencing a famous feature of its members?
Answer
Greek, relating to a horned creature
The name *Cerastes* originates from Greek terminology, relating to a horned creature, which specifically references the horns found on the most famous members of the group.
Related Questions
To which family and subfamily do snakes of the genus Cerastes belong?What structures commonly referred to as horns on some Cerastes snakes are actually modified scales?Which species of Cerastes is often recognized by its lack of prominent horns?What texture do the strongly keeled scales of Cerastes impart to the snake's body?What specialized method of locomotion do Cerastes snakes use for efficient travel across loose sand?What term describes the typical activity pattern of Cerastes snakes, enabling them to avoid extreme daytime desert heat?What is the primary action classification of the venom found in Cerastes species?What behavior involving body vibration do Cerastes utilize during the day to sink beneath the sand surface?What is the origin of the genus designation *Cerastes*, referencing a famous feature of its members?When a Cerastes snake feels threatened while partially buried, what is its primary defensive instinct?