What shapes describe the dorsolateral markings on *Bothrops alternatus*?

Cross, enclose a darker blotch, or headphone shape.

The dorsal patterns of *Bothrops alternatus* are distinctive and often result in its common designation as the 'crossed pit viper.' These chocolate brown to black dorsolateral markings are characterized by being widened, sometimes appearing to be enclosed by the paler ground color underneath, creating patterns that strongly resemble a cross. Alternatively, these markings can enclose a darker central blotch or divide the marking into three distinct sections, leading to a description of a 'headphone' shape. These interconnected patterns differ significantly from the more separated, subtriangular or trapezoidal markings typical of *B. jararaca*.