Ancistrodon

/ænˌsɪs.ˈtrɑː.dɑn/ noun

Definition

A genus of venomous pit vipers found in the Americas, including the copperhead and cottonmouth snakes.

Etymology

From Greek 'ankistron' (fishhook) plus 'odous' (tooth), named for the snakes' curved venomous fangs that resemble little fishhooks.

Kelly Says

These snakes have specialized heat-sensing pits that work like infrared cameras—they can strike prey in absolute darkness. The fishhook-tooth name actually describes how the fangs fold into the roof of the mouth.

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