FAMILY VIPERIDAE Meaning and
Definition
-
Family Viperidae is a taxonomic family of venomous snakes mainly found in the Americas, Africa, and Eurasia. It is commonly referred to as the viper family or pit vipers. This family is distinguished by its characteristic features, including the presence of retractable, hollow fangs that are used to inject venom into their prey. Viperidae snakes are generally medium to large in size, and many species possess a broad, flattened head. Most of them also exhibit distinct triangular-shaped heads, which aids in their identification.
These snakes are known for their venomous bite. The venom produced by members of the Family Viperidae is primarily hemotoxic, meaning it affects the blood and tissues of their victims. The venom leads to symptoms such as tissue damage, blood clotting abnormalities, and potential organ failure. This makes them potentially dangerous to humans and other animals.
Viperidae snakes are primarily terrestrial and adaptable, inhabiting a wide range of habitats, including forests, grasslands, deserts, and even urban areas. Many species possess heat-sensitive pits on their heads, which allow them to locate warm-blooded prey, even in darkness. These snakes are typically ambush predators, patiently waiting for suitable prey to pass by before striking with precision.
The Family Viperidae includes some well-known species such as rattlesnakes, adders, and vipers. They play an essential role in controlling populations of small mammals and maintaining the natural balance of ecosystems. However, due to habitat loss, poaching, and fear-induced killing, many Viperidae species are facing population declines and are listed as threatened or endangered.
Common Misspellings for FAMILY VIPERIDAE
- damily viperidae
- camily viperidae
- vamily viperidae
- gamily viperidae
- tamily viperidae
- ramily viperidae
- fzmily viperidae
- fsmily viperidae
- fwmily viperidae
- fqmily viperidae
- fanily viperidae
- fakily viperidae
- fajily viperidae
- famuly viperidae
- famjly viperidae
- famkly viperidae
- famoly viperidae
- fam9ly viperidae
- fam8ly viperidae
Etymology of FAMILY VIPERIDAE
The etymology of the word "Viperidae" has its origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word "viper", which means "poisonous snake". The suffix "-idae" is a common taxonomic designation used to denote family names in zoology. Therefore, the Family Viperidae refers to the taxonomic family of venomous snakes that includes various species such as vipers, rattlesnakes, and adders.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
