Consider the following statements regarding the reticulated python:1. ...
The correct answer is option 'B', which states that statement 2 only is correct. Let's analyze each statement to understand why.
1. It is endemic only to Western Ghats region of India:
The reticulated python (Python reticulatus) is not endemic to the Western Ghats region of India. In fact, it is not native to India at all. The reticulated python is found in Southeast Asia, including countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines. It inhabits a variety of environments, including rainforests, grasslands, and swamps. Therefore, statement 1 is incorrect.
2. It has a unique disruptive coloration mechanism which makes it unrecognizable in its environment:
Statement 2 is correct. The reticulated python has a unique coloration pattern that helps it blend in with its surroundings, making it difficult to spot. Its name "reticulated" comes from the Latin word "reticulum," which means net-like. This refers to the python's intricate pattern of dark brown or black lines on a lighter background. These patterns form a net-like appearance, which helps the python camouflage itself among the vegetation and shadows in its environment. This disruptive coloration mechanism is an effective adaptation for the python to hide from predators and ambush its prey. Therefore, statement 2 is correct.
In conclusion, only statement 2 is correct. The reticulated python is not endemic to the Western Ghats region of India but is found in Southeast Asia. However, it does possess a unique disruptive coloration mechanism that aids in its camouflage and makes it unrecognizable in its environment.
Consider the following statements regarding the reticulated python:1. ...
Recently, a juvenile reticulated python was sighted inside IIT Madras campus.
- It is a member of the family Pythonidae.
- These snakes come in a wide variety of color patterns, and many of the variations can be based on their location.
- It is a heavy-bodied, very long snake with a proportionately large head.
- Like most other python species, it has heat-sensing pits.
- The pits are deep and well-developed, located on the front upper and lower labials and the lower rear labials.
- This species, despite its striking color patterns, camouflage well within its environment.
- It’s an example of disruptive coloration, a type of camouflage where the animal’s pattern helps break up the outlines of its body. This pattern helps this giant snake disappear into the brush and allows it to ambush its prey.
- Distribution: This species has a broad range across southeastern Asia, including the Nicobar Islands, Myanmar, across to Indochina, Philippines, and Malaysia.
- Habitat: These tropical snakes are classically associated with lowland rainforests and wetlands.
- Conservation status
- IUCN: Least concern
Hence only statement 2 is correct.