Regional Morphology
This is relevant for Pit Vipers in Mexico and Central America.
Morphological identification key
| Crotalinae | ||||||
|
Is there a "rattle" or a knob-like projection on the end of the tail? |
yes
|
Are there several enlarged shields on the top of the head (generally 9, sometimes 11)? |
yes | Crotalus ravus | ||
| no | no | |||||
| Crotalus sp.(excluding Crotalus ravus) | ||||||
|
Are there several enlarged shields on the top of the head (generally 9)? |
yes |
Agkistrodon sp. | ||||
| no
|
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|
Are there protruding, spiky scales underneath the tip of the tail? |
yes | Lachesis sp. | ||||
| no
|
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|
Are there characteristic markings in the form of open triangles or arrowheads? |
yes | Bothrops asper | ||||
| no
|
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