What is the primary purpose of the keeled scales found on the African Horned Viper?
Answer
To assist with movement and stability in sandy, dune environments
The African Horned Viper features scales with a ridge down the center, known as keeled scales. This rough texture is highly functional for life in desert or dune environments. Specifically, the keeling prevents sand grains from sliding off the snake's body, which facilitates the snake's efficient sidewinding locomotion across shifting, loose substrates.
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Smallest, longest and heaviest viper species in the world
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