Why is the potent venom's efficient use paramount for the pelagic hunter *H. platurus*?
Answer
Venom is a finite resource that requires energy to produce
For the yellow-bellied sea snake, which practices an energy-conserving ambush lifestyle, the deployment of its potent neurotoxin/isotoxin venom must be highly efficient. The primary reason for this efficiency is that venom production is an energetically costly process, making it a finite resource for the snake. Therefore, maximizing the return on venom expenditure is paramount in its feeding strategy. Behavioral adaptations, such as targeting entire schools rather than chasing scattered individuals, might be employed to maximize the yield from each venomous strike, perfectly aligning with its need to conserve energy while hunting in the demanding pelagic zone.
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