What is the origin of the genus name Naja used for the Yellow Cobra?
Answer
A Latin adaptation of the Sanskrit term nāgá
The genus designation, *Naja*, carries historical linguistic roots tracing back to ancient languages. Specifically, the term is a Latin adaptation originating from the Sanskrit word *nāgá*. In Sanskrit, *nāgá* directly translates to mean 'cobra,' signifying its recognition as a member of this iconic and widely known group of snakes across various cultures. This nomenclature connects the modern scientific classification system back to ancient descriptions and identifications of these specific reptiles.
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