Ancient snakes have been discovered in Wyoming, shedding light on the continent’s slithering past. The newly found fossil snake species, Hibernophis breithaupti, lived in North America 34 million years ago, providing insights into the evolution of boas and pythons. The fossils, found intertwined in a burrow, are remarkably well-preserved and articulated, offering clues to the early members of Booidea.
Hibernophis breithaupti’s unique anatomical features hint at its possible position within the evolutionary tree. Researchers believe it may have played a key role in the early evolution of small, burrowing boas. This discovery challenges previous theories on the development of these snakes, suggesting that North America was a crucial hub for their evolution.
Moreover, the finding of these snakes curled together suggests a possible early evidence of social behavior and hibernation in snake populations. This behavior, observed in modern garter snakes, highlights the importance of group hibernation for heat conservation.
The study, published in the Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society, brings valuable insights into snake evolution and behavioral patterns, expanding our understanding of these fascinating creatures’ history.
Vocabulary List:
- Anatomical /ˌænəˈtɒmɪkəl/ (adjective): Relating to the structure of the bodies of humans or other organisms.
- Evolution /ˌiːvəˈluːʃən/ (noun): The gradual development of something especially from a simple to a more complex form.
- Fossil /ˈfɒsəl/ (noun): The remains or impression of a prehistoric organism preserved in petrified form or as a mold or cast in rock.
- Intertwined /ˌɪntəˈtwaɪnd/ (verb): Twisted together or closely connected.
- Behavior /bɪˈheɪvjər/ (noun): The way in which one acts or conducts oneself especially toward others.
- Hub /hʌb/ (noun): The effective center of an activity region or network.
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