The ethmoidal region and cranial adaptations of the neotropical aquatic snake Helicops infrataeniatus Jan, 1865 (Serpentes, Colubridae).
- Resource Type
- Article
- Authors
- Dos Santos-Costa, Maria Cristina; Hofstadler-Deiques, Clarice
- Source
- Amphibia-Reptilia. 2002, Vol. 23 Issue 1, p83-91. 9p. 6 Diagrams.
- Subject
- *SNAKES
*HELICOPS
- Language
- ISSN
- 0173-5373
The ethmoidal region of the snake Helicops infrataeniatus is described on the basis of serial sections. Cavernous tissue and a subnasal muscle circling the nasal vestibule were identified. These structures are related to the aquatic habit of this species, serving as a device for narrowing walls of the fenestra narina, which prevents the entry of water when the snake submerges. Observations related to behavior in captivity are also presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]