Analysis of the ecological and taxonomic correspondence of dorsal snake scale microdermatoglyphics
New York, NY, New York Univ., Diss. 1981
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| Sprache: | eng |
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Tag hinzufügen | Zusammenfassung: | New York, NY, New York Univ., Diss. 1981 The object of this study was to determine the meaning of dorsal snake scales microdermatoglyphics, the surface patterns seen if snake scales are subjected to high magnification under the scanning electron microscope. It has been suggested by various workers that these patterns either correspond to the snakes' ecology, or have some taxonomic significance. If the patterns were found to correspond to the animals' ecological situation, then it might prove possible to predict the habitat of little known species from a single scale. If, on the other hand, the patterns were found to have taxonomic significance, herpetologists would have a new tool to better analyze snake relationships. Dorsal scales of 332 species of snakes were examined and photographed under the scanning electron microscope during the course of this study. The photographs were then analyzed for both ecological and taxonomic correspondence. The results of this study indicate that the animals' ecology in no way influences or determines their dorsal scale microdermatoglyphic patterns. It is further concluded that the patterns seen have important taxonomic relevance. They prove most valuable in determining relationships at or near the generic level, although they may occasionally help differentiate species or higher taxa. As a result of this study, it is urged that a description of every snake's microdermatoglyphic pattern be included in that species definition and/or diagnosis, so that herpetologists will be able to take advantage of the significant amount of taxonomic information inherent in this character. |
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| Beschreibung: | 264 S. |