Date: February 15, 2019
Source: University of Adelaide
New research
has revealed the fascinating adaptation of some Australian sea snakes that
helps protect their vulnerable paddle-shaped tails from predators.
An
international study led by the University of Adelaide shows that several
species of Australian sea snakes can sense light on their tail skin, prompting
them to withdraw their tails under shelter. The study has also produced new
insights into the evolution and genetics of this rare light sense.
The
researchers found that olive sea snakes (Aipysurus
laevis) and other Aipysurus species move their tail away from
light. They believe this is an adaptation to keep the tail hidden from sharks
and other predators.
"Sea
snakes live their entire lives at sea, swimming with paddle-shaped tails and
resting at times during the day under coral or rocky overhangs," says
study lead author Jenna Crowe-Riddell, PhD candidate in the University of
Adelaide's School of Biological Sciences. "Because sea snakes have long
bodies, the tail-paddle is a large distance from the head, so benefits from having
a light-sense ability of its own.
"The
olive sea snake was the only reptile, out of more than 10,000 reptile species,
that was known to respond to light on the skin in this way."
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