Which species typically exhibits a higher number of midbody dorsal scale rows?
Answer
*Bothrops alternatus* (25–35 rows).
Detailed morphological examination of the dorsal scales reveals a statistical difference between the two species. *Bothrops alternatus* generally presents a greater number of dorsal scale rows counted at the snake's midbody, typically falling within the range of 25 to 35 rows, with specific averages often cited between 27 and 33 rows depending on sex. Conversely, *Bothrops jararaca* usually possesses fewer rows, commonly settling between 23 and 25 rows at the same body location. This variation in scale count is one of the precise scientific markers used to confirm species identity beyond superficial pattern recognition.
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