UROPELTIDAE Meaning and
Definition
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Uropeltidae is a scientific term that refers to a family of non-venomous snakes commonly known as shield-tailed snakes. These snakes are predominantly found in the southern regions of India and Sri Lanka. The name "uropeltidae" is derived from the Greek words "oura" meaning "tail" and "peltē" meaning "shield," which alludes to the unique shield-like scales found on these snakes' tails.
Members of the Uropeltidae family are characterized by their elongated bodies, small heads, and short tails. They are relatively small in size, with most species ranging from 30 to 60 centimeters in length. These snakes have robust bodies covered in smooth scales, often displaying various shades of brown or black coloration, which allows them to blend well with their natural habitat.
One of the most distinctive features of uropeltidae snakes is their modified caudal scales, which form a shield or disc-like structure at the end of their tails. This adaptation is believed to aid in burrowing, as shield-tailed snakes primarily inhabit underground burrows. This specialized tail also helps them in defense, as they can wedge it against the walls of their burrows, preventing predators from pulling them out.
Uropeltidae snakes are primarily insectivorous, feeding on a diet consisting of various invertebrates, such as ants, termites, and other small arthropods. Their underground lifestyle, burrowing behavior, and relatively secretive nature contribute to their limited visibility in the wild.
Overall, uropeltidae is a family of non-venomous snakes that possess unique morphological adaptations suited for life underground, namely their shield-like scales at the end of their tails.
Common Misspellings for UROPELTIDAE
- yropeltidae
- hropeltidae
- jropeltidae
- iropeltidae
- 8ropeltidae
- 7ropeltidae
- ueopeltidae
- udopeltidae
- ufopeltidae
- utopeltidae
- u5opeltidae
- u4opeltidae
- uripeltidae
- urkpeltidae
- urlpeltidae
- urppeltidae
- ur0peltidae
- ur9peltidae
- urooeltidae
- uroleltidae
Etymology of UROPELTIDAE
The word "Uropeltidae" has its etymology rooted in the Greek language. "Uro" (οὐρά) means "tail" in Greek, and "peltas" (πέλτη) means "shield". The term "Uropeltidae" is used to refer to a family of nonvenomous snakes endemic to southern India and Sri Lanka that have a partially or wholly keeled shield on their tails, hence the name.
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