Where are the eyes and nostrils of *E. notaeus* positioned for an aquatic lifestyle?
Answer
On the top of the head
A classic and vital morphological adaptation shared by anacondas and other aquatic snakes involves the placement of key sensory organs. For *E. notaeus*, both the eyes and the nostrils are positioned on the dorsal surface, or the top, of the head. This specialized arrangement allows the snake to maintain almost complete submersion beneath the water's surface—providing concealment and buoyancy control—while still being able to breathe air and effectively observe its surroundings for both prey location and threat detection. This feature underscores the intense selective pressure favoring a highly aquatic existence over terrestrial movement.
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