Which defining trait of Class Reptilia does Hydrophis platurus typically deviate from in its life cycle?
Answer
The usual pattern of laying shelled eggs, as it gives live birth.
Class Reptilia generally encompasses animals that are cold-blooded, possess scales, and are characterized by laying shelled eggs, although there are variations within the class. Marine reptiles often exhibit modifications to cope with aquatic environments. For the Yellow-Bellied Sea Snake, a significant deviation from the typical reptilian reproductive strategy is that, unlike many terrestrial reptiles, it does not lay shelled eggs; instead, it has adapted to give live birth while existing entirely at sea. However, it retains other key reptilian characteristics, such as having scales and being ectothermic.
Related Questions
Why was Hydrophis platurus moved from the genus Pelamis to Hydrophis?What significant characteristic defines the Family Elapidae, to which Hydrophis platurus belongs?Which defining trait of Class Reptilia does Hydrophis platurus typically deviate from in its life cycle?What specific feature justifies the placement of Hydrophis platurus within Phylum Chordata?Who first formally named the species as *platurus* and in what year, according to accepted nomenclature authority?What defining feature distinguishes snakes within Order Squamata, which includes *H. platurus*?What does the notation *Hydrophis* (*Pelamis*) *platurus* signify regarding the original classification?What necessary characteristic is confirmed by the designation of *H. platurus* in Kingdom Animalia?What evolutionary conclusion is supported by *H. platurus* belonging to Family Elapidae despite its pelagic life?What concept does the specific epithet *platurus* reference regarding the physical attributes of *H. platurus*?