What scale texture feature distinguishes the Zebra Cobra from the Rinkhals in the rear half of the body?
Answer
Smooth scales throughout
A critical physical distinction between the Zebra Cobra (*Naja nigricincta*) and the Rinkhals (*Hemachatus haemachatus*) lies in their scale morphology, particularly on the posterior body. The Zebra Cobra is characterized by having smooth scales across its entire body structure. Conversely, the Rinkhals possesses keeled scales specifically on the rear half of its body. This difference in scale texture is considered a reliable marker for accurate field identification, especially when visual pattern variation makes color an unreliable sole indicator for distinguishing between these two species that may share habitats and spitting capabilities.
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