Acanthophis

/ækænθˈoʊfɪs/ noun

Definition

A genus of venomous snakes found in Australia and nearby regions, commonly known as death adders, with spiny scales.

Etymology

From Greek 'akantha' (spine) + 'ophis' (snake), literally meaning 'spiny snake,' referring to their keeled scales.

Kelly Says

Death adders earned this 'spiny snake' name because their scales have ridges that make them look textured and dangerous—it's a perfect example of how animal names often describe their most obvious features!

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