What is the reproductive method of the Sahara sand viper, Cerastes vipera?

Answer

Viviparous

The Sahara sand viper, unlike many other snake species, is characterized by being viviparous. This reproductive strategy dictates that the young develop entirely inside the mother's body, leading to the birth of live young rather than the laying of eggs. This method is highly beneficial in the extremely harsh desert environment because eggs deposited in the sand would be highly susceptible to fatal desiccation, or drying out, due to the lack of moisture, and they would also be subjected to extreme temperature fluctuations that could easily kill the developing embryos before hatching could occur. This internal gestation protects the offspring throughout their vulnerable developmental stage until they are ready to face the arid conditions immediately upon birth, making them immediately self-sufficient.

What is the reproductive method of the Sahara sand viper, Cerastes vipera?

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