What texture characterizes the dorsal scales of Pantherophis obsoletus along the back?
Answer
Keeled, possessing a slight ridge
The dorsal scales, which run down the center of the snake's back, are a defining and consistent physical trait across most life stages of the Western Rat Snake. These scales are described as distinctly keeled, meaning that each individual scale features a small ridge running down its middle. This structure results in the snake having a texture that appears somewhat rough or matte, rather than exhibiting a smooth or shiny surface finish, which is characteristic of other species or the ventral scales.
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