What taxonomic distinction separates Viperidae from Elapidae at the Family rank?
Answer
Fang structure and venom delivery mechanism
The split between the Yarara's family, Viperidae, and the Elapidae family (which includes cobras) occurs distinctly at the family level based on morphology related to venom delivery. Viperidae snakes possess long, hinged fangs, allowing them to deliver complex venom effectively. In contrast, Elapids possess fixed fangs. This morphological difference, tied directly to their evolutionary path reflected in the classification, is a key biological differentiator between these two major groups of venomous snakes.
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