#Family: Pythonidae

[haveyouseenthisanimal-irl]

[herpsandbirds]

White-lipped Python (Leiopython albertisii), family Pythonidae, Farfak, New Guinea

photographs by Aponk Al'z Rusdy

[bestanimal]

Round 3 - Reptilia - Squamata

(Sources - 1, 2, 3, 4)

Our second order of reptiles is Squamata, commonly called “lizards” and “snakes” (though snakes are in fact a suborder of lizards). This is a highly diverse order, containing the families… *deep breath*… Dibamidae (“blind skinks”), Diplodactylidae (diplodactylid geckos), Pygopodidae (“snake-lizards”), Carphodactylidae (“southern padless geckos”), Eublepharidae (“eyelid geckos”), Sphaerodactylidae (sphaerodactylid geckos), Phyllodactylidae (phyllodactylid geckos), Gekkonidae (“common geckos”), Scincidae (“skinks”), Xantusiidae (“night lizards”), Gerrhosauridae (“plated lizards”), Cordylidae (“girdled lizards”), Gymnophthalmidae (“spectacled lizards”), Teiidae (“whiptails” and “tegus”), Alopoglossidae (“teids” and “largescale lizards”), Lacertidae (“wall lizards”), Rhineuridae (“Florida Worm Lizard”), Bipedidae (“Mexican Mole Lizard”, “Four-toed Worm Lizard”, and “Three-toed Worm Lizard”), Blanidae (also “worm lizards”), Cadeidae (“Cuban keel-headed worm lizards”), Trogonophidae (“Palearctic worm lizards”), Amphisbaenidae (“worm lizards”), Shinisauridae (“Chinese Crocodile Lizard”), Lanthanotidae (“Earless Monitor Lizard”), Varanidae (“monitor lizards”), Helodermatidae (“beaded lizards”), Xenosauridae (“knob-scaled lizards”), Diploglossidae (“galliwasps”), Anniellidae (“American legless lizards”), Anguidae (“glass lizards” and “alligator lizards”), Chamaeleonidae (“chameleons”), Agamidae (“agamas” or “dragon lizards”), Leiocephalidae (“curlytail lizards”), Iguanidae (“iguanas” and “chuckwallas”), Hoplocercidae (“woodlizards” and “dwarf iguanas”), Crotaphytidae (“collared lizards”), Corytophanidae (“casquehead lizards”), Tropiduridae (“Neotropical ground lizards”), Phrynosomatidae (phrynosomatid lizards), Dactyloidae (“anoles”), Polychrotidae (“bush anoles”), Liolaemidae (liolaemid lizards), Leiosauridae (leiosaurid lizards), Opluridae (“Malagasy iguanas”), Leptotyphlopidae (“slender blind snakes”), Gerrhopilidae (“Indo-Malayan blindsnakes”), Xenotyphlopidae (“Malagasy blind snakes”), Typhlopidae (typhlopid blindsnakes), Anomalepididae (“primitive blind snakes”), Aniliidae (“American Pipe Snake”), Tropidophiidae (“dwarf boas”), Uropeltidae (“shield-tail snakes”), Anomochilidae (“dwarf pipesnakes”), Cylindrophiidae (“Asian pipesnakes”), Xenopeltidae (“sunbeam snakes”), Loxocemidae (“Mexican Python”), Pythonidae (pythons), Boidae (“boas”), Xenophidiidae (“spinejaw snakes”), Bolyeriidae (“Round Island boas”), Acrochordidae (“wart snakes”), Xenodermidae (“odd-scaled snakes”, “Borneo Red Snake”, “Dragon Snake”, and kin), Pareidae (“slug and snail-eating snakes”), Viperidae (vipers), Homalopsidae (“Indo-Australian water snakes”), Colubridae (colubrid snakes), Lamprophiidae (“house snakes”), and Elapidae (elapid snakes).

As this order is so diverse it would be hard to summarize their anatomy and behavior in one paragraph. Squamates have 4 legs ancestrally, but many groups have secondarily lost one pair or all of their legs. Some of these groups retain vestigial hind limbs beneath their skin. They can be herbivorous or carnivorous, lay eggs or give live birth, be terrestrial, fossorial, arboreal, semi-aquatic, or fully aquatic. Some utilize a flattened body or flaps of skin to glide. Some lack teeth, some have one or more teeth, and some have teeth designed for injecting venom. Venom, used in hunting and sometimes defense, evolved early in ambush predators of the clades Caenophidia, Anguimorpha, and Iguania, before the three groups split. It can be delivered via specialized fangs or saliva. Squamates “smell” via chemoreception, taking in scent particles on their tongue and transferring them to the Jacobson’s organ on the roof of their mouth, which then sends the information to the brain. Thus, when a squamate flicks its tongue in and out of its mouth, it is “taste-smelling” the air.

Squamata and Rhynchocephalia form the superorder Lepidosauria, which is the sister group to Archosauria, the clade that contains crocodilians and birds. As rhynchocephalians first appeared in the Early Triassic, the lineage leading to squamates must have also existed at the time. The oldest known squamate ancestor is Megachirella, which existed in the Middle Triassic. The oldest unambiguous fossils of squamates date to the Middle Jurassic, with the first appearance of many modern groups during this period.

Propaganda under the cut:

Many groups, such as the blind skinks and blind snakes, have greatly reduced eyes covered by a scale. These eyes can only sense light and dark. They have little need for eyes though, as they burrow underground and utilize their sense of smell and hearing to perceive the world.

Male squamates have hemipenes (two penises linked together), which are usually held inverted within their bodies, and are everted for reproduction via erectile tissue like a mammalian penis. Only one is used at a time, and some evidence indicates that males alternate use between copulations. Stay tuned for more Penis Facts™.

Snakes, the most recent suborder of lizards, are thought to have evolved from burrowing lizards during the Cretaceous Period. One of the most basal known snakes, Najash rionegrina, was a two-legged burrowing snake from the Late Cretaceous. However, snakes are not the only lizards to have lost their legs, and many other families seem to be following in their footsteps… or lack thereof.

The smallest squamate, and the smallest known reptile, is the Jaragua Sphaero (Sphaerodactylus ariasae), also known as the Jaragua Dwarf Gecko. The Jaragua Sphaero measures 14–18 mm (0.55–0.71 in) from the snout to the base of the tail and can fit on a US quarter. It has an average weight of 0.13 g.

Meanwhile, the longest squamate is the Reticulated Python (Malayopython reticulatus), which can grow up to 6.5 m (21.4 ft), and weigh up to 75 kg (165 lb). This upper range is rare, however. It is surpassed in weight by the Green Anaconda (Eunectes murinus) which can weigh up to 80 kg (176 lb), the Komodo Dragon (Varanus komodoensis) which can weigh up to 150 kg (330 lb), and the Burmese Python (Python bivittatus) with a record weight of 182.8 kg (403 lb) in one captive individual.

The largest squamates in history were the mosasaurs, a clade of lizards within the suborder Anguimorpha, which also includes the beaded lizards, legless lizards, monitor lizards, and others. These fully aquatic lizards were adapted for a life at sea, and ranged from the 1 m (3.3 ft) long Dallasaurus turneri, to the 12 meter (39 ft) long apex predator Mosasaurus hoffmannii.

Though they survived the Cretaceous–Paleogene extinction event, many squamate species are now endangered due to habitat loss, hunting, the pet trade, invasive species, and other anthropogenic causes. Because of this, some squamate species have recently become extinct. Breeding programs exist in many zoos, both to retain reservoir populations and to boost populations in the wild through releases. Unfortunately, not every species is charismatic, and it can be hard to get the public invested and involved in squamate conservation.

[etymology-of-the-emblem]

Python / パイソン and Forsyth / フォルス

Python (JP: パイソン; rōmaji: paison) is a wise-cracking and apathetic member of the Deliverance in Fire Emblem Gaiden and its remake, Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valentia. Most of you likely know that a python is a type of snake; specifically, the Python genus belongs to the Pythonidae family, consisting of nonvenomous serpents.

Before the name was carried by this subset of snake, the name was attributed to the mythical Python (also called ピュートーン; rōmaji: pyūtōn), enemy of the Greek solar god Apollo. Typically depicted as a great serpent, Python resided at Pytho (later called Delphi), thought to be the center of the world. The story goes (according to Hyginus, at least) that after the goddess Hera learned that her husband Zeus had an affair with Leto, the enraged queen of Olympus sent Python after Leto to prevent the birth of the twins she carried—Artemis and Apollo. Leto found a reprieve, thanks to Poseidon, on the island of Delos and gave birth; not four days after, Apollo would pick up the bow and arrow and sought out Python. Alternatively, some versions tell of Leto and her children leaving Delos for Delphi, only to be attacked by Python once more. All adaptations end the same, however: Apollo brings an end to the serpent by arrows, and Delphi and its oracle would then belong to the sun god. Most likely, the Python in Fire Emblem being an archer was inspired by the mythological beast's slayer.

Forsyth is a straight-laced and passionate member of the Deliverance and Python's best friend. The name Forsyth is Scottish in origin, and has been carried by many notable people. Possible figures that could tie into the character's scholarly background include Scottish theologian P. T. Forsyth and founder of the Royal Horticultural Society and namesake of the forsythia plant—William Forsyth. Also worth noting is the English military journalist and writer Frederick Forsyth and the historic Clan Forsyth of Scotland.

In Japanese, Forsyth is instead called フォルス (rōmaji: forusu), officially romanized as Fols. In Greek mythology, Pholus (JP: フォルス), also called Pholos (JP: ポロス; rōmaji: porosu), was one of the two wise and sophisticated centaurs alongside the more famous Chiron. He appears in the story of Heracles: after the hero captured the Erymanthian Boar, Heracles was offered hospitality in Pholus' cave as he passed through the area. However, when a container of wine was opened, the smell disturbed the wild centaurs in the area, sparking aggression. Heracles would them off with arrows coated in the blood of the Lernaean Hydra, which was capable of inflicting instant death. Pholus, the coward that he was, fled from the battle, but in his curiosity, took to examining a loose arrow, only to drop it on his foot. The gods showed him mercy and placed Pholus in the stars as the constellation Centaurus. (Note that it is common for versions to instead claim Chiron was the one killed by one of Heracles' arrows and made into a constellation).

Lastly, I feel it must be mentioned that there is a very real possibility that these two characters may be named after two programming languages. Python (JP: パイソン) saw its first release in February of 1991,in the middle of Fire Emblem Gaiden's development. Unfortunately, I have no idea how quick Python caught on in the beginning—even less how known it was in Japan in its first year—which is why I feel the Greek inspirations are more likely. That said, Forth (JP: フォース; rōmaji: fōsu) was another programming language made public in the 70's and became very popular in the 80's. Though the katakana used is different, フォルス can still be read as "fo[u]rth," and could potentially have been a stylistic choice.

[fucxingcuties]

Sumatran Short Tail Python (Python curtus), Aceh Province variety, family Pythonidae, from Sumatra, Indonesia

photograph by AC Exotics

[markscherz]

Is traditional Boidae (boas, pythons, Loxocemus, Casarea, etc.) monophyletic?

no, not at all. It's a shitshow.

Here is part of the phylogeny of squamates by Zheng & Wiens (2016).

True pythons (Pythonidae) are sister to Loxocemidae (burrowing pythons), in turn sister to Xenopeltidae (sunbeam snakes)

On the other hand, Boidae in the broad sense (since very often treated as superfamily Booidea, with subfamilies treated as full families) is closest related to Calabariidae (Calabar 'python'). The relationships between Pythonidae+Loxocemidae+Xenopeltidae and Booidea+Calabariidae is not well resolved, and the Xenophidiidae and Bolyeriidae somehow get in the middle.

So, it is very likely that pythons and boas arrived at their morphological similarities rather independently. Which is especially impressive in lineages like Chondropython and Corallus, which are just unbelievably similar.

For other ramblings on a related topic, see this post about the lack of pythons in Madagascar

[pleistocene-pride]

The Central African rock python (Python sebae) is a species of large snake in the family Pythonidae and one of the 10 living species in the genus Python, which is native throughout almost the whole of sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal east to Ethiopia and Somalia and south to Namibia and South Africa and have become invasive in the florida everglades. Here they are found throughout a wide variety of habitats including including forest, wetlands, savanna, grassland, semidesert, and rocky areas. It is particularly associated with areas of permanent water, and is found on the edges of swamps, lakes, and rivers. They are a generally solitary non venomous species of constrictor which is known to feed upon fish, rodents, birds, monkeys, antelopes, bats, lizards, crocodiles, dogs, goats, sheep, pigs, jackals, hyenas, & big cats. On average Central African rock pythons reach around 9.8 to 16.4ft (3 to 5m) in length and 97 to 121 pounds (44 to 55kg) in weight, however individuals reaching up to 24.6ft (7.5m) and 214lbs (97kg) are not unheard of. African rock pythons have a relatively small, triangular head that is covered in irregular scales that are typically blackish to brownish-gray in color. The body is yellowish, gray-brown, or gray-green, with dark blotches that form a staircase-like pattern on the back. Belly scales are a white color with black specks producing a salt-and-peppery pattern. Mating occurs in the spring after which time the mother climbs inside an old animal burrow, termite mound, or cave and lay 20 to 100 hard-shelled, elongated eggs. The female shows a surprising level of maternal care not typical for snakes, coiling around the eggs, protecting them from predators, and possibly helping to incubate them, until they hatch around 90 days later. She then spends up to 2 weeks protecting and caring for the hatchlings. Under ideal conditions a central African rock python will reach sexual maturity at 3 to 5 years and live up to 30.

[tadotravel]

African rock python is a species of large constrictor snake in the family of Pythonidae. 

The species is native to Africa. It is one of 10 living species in the genus Python. Africa's largest snake and one of the eight largest snake species in the world 

African rock pythons have a thick body covered with colored blotches, often joining up in a broad, irregular stripe. Body markings vary between brown, olive, chestnut, and yellow, but fade to white on the underside.

The head of these snakes is triangular and marked on top with a dark brown “spear-head” outlined in buffy yellow.

African rock pythons are non-venomous and snakes they don’t have fangs.

The snake is widely feared, though it very rarely kills humans

African rock python’s lifespan is 20 – 30 years but the might live even longer in the wild.

You’ve probably heard that snakes have poor eyesight. This is true!

African rock pythons. They aren’t blind, but they don’t perceive much with their eyes; instead, they rely on a complex sensory organs in and around their face.

The tongues of African rock pythons are able to “smell” the surrounding environment. If a prey is nearby, their tongues will sense it.

African rock pythons have heat-sensing pits in their scales that

Helps them locate both predators and prey.

African rock pythons start to mate with each other when they’re around 3 – 5 years old.

African rock pythons are solitary creatures that prefer to live and hunt alone. The exception to this is the mating season; they’ll come together to breed, but it doesn’t last long, and males leave the females as soon as they start nesting.

African rock pythons are most active at night, especially when they’re trying to hunt.

[serpentide]

a young couple, hailing from people's republic of china, once dreamt of the starlit skies of night city [ ... ] where all dreams come true, where all dreams wither and die. after a troublesome journey, they soon discovered that night city was not the safe haven that they had dreamt of: little china was welcoming, but thriving with violence and crimes, with poverty and gangs. it took only two years, the birth of a beautiful daughter and a refused job offer to put an end to their dreams of grandeur.

serpent became an orphan at one year of age and ever since, she grew up within one of the many orphanages scattered across the city. she was never given a name, the numbers sewn into her clothes were enough to distinguish her from the other children who'd spend their days begging for money, chasing after the specter of a real family that would have one day come to save them from that miserable life. serpent was only four years old, when she was kidnapped to be used as live food for a specimen of pythonidae that had been genetically enhanced through the course of questionable experiments. she was imprisoned within the back of a truck with the python, for she was nothing more than a snack to keep the precious snake satisfied until it could be delivered to its new owner ... and the snake did what all snakes would have done, it coiled around the child's fragile body and sank its genetically modified fangs into her skin to poison her.

but the child did not die. the toxins modified her neural connections and re - wrote the natural course of things: the girl became more snake than child, and by the time the delivery had to be completed, she had tamed the black python that now obediently bowed its arrow - shaped head at her. a miracle, mayhap ? or a curse. the buyer, who had created a kingdom in the underbelly of the dark web with his XBDs, was enamored with the hundreds of possibilities that this child had unconsciously laid at his feet and she was thus bought alongside the python. for the many years that came afterwards, the child was kept within a cage with the snake and was forced to partake in the recording of countless extreme braindances: it took her a while to comprehend what was happening and even once she did, she merely exorcised the truth of it ( she made herself blind, she made herself deaf, she made herself numb to it all ) .

it took fifteen years, to taste freedom 'pon her tongue. no one knows what truly happened to the master of XBDs, all is known is that he disappeared without a trace and with him, the woman who could speak to snakes. serpent, as she had been baptized by her fans, wandered across the crowded streets of night city for a long time before she was given a new home, a new cage: an entertainment agency was generous enough to offer her a job as their prime artist, all she had to do was to be herself, dance and sing and entertain those wealthy people who attempted to buy her services and favors with dirty money and unwanted caresses. the job was not at all terrible, but the awareness of being nothing more than a monstrous diversion for all these people began eating away at her. some time passed and once more, there was nothing left of those who had tried to treat her as a pet [ ... ] once more, she found herself wandering across the streets of night city in search of a home.

by the time this happened, her body had begun to corrode and collapse underneath the weight of her monstrous metamorphosis. her scaled skin was turning rotten, her eyes would oftentimes lose their focus, her body felt more and more comatose ... she was certain that she would have died alongside the python that had been her one and only family, but the goddess of fortune finally smiled at her. she was found by a fixer who had followed both her movements and her XBDs for a very long time ; with the claim of wanting to save her, he offered her a deal: in exchange for his help in re - building her rotting body, she merely had to work for him. serpent was desperate and did not think twice before accepting his conditions.

it took weeks. most of her body was replaced with cyberware and bioware which gave her an even more uncanny, serpentine appearance: sharp ophidian fangs with lethal venom in them, deadly retractable claws, luminescent scales scattered across her body, enhanced pointed ears and the most expensive ocular systems turned her into an apex predator. alongside her, her beloved python was also given a whole new body: the toxins within its venom were improved and its body was now capable of shifting both in shape and size at will.

born anew, to die once more. and thus, serpent now works for a "circus" that is located within the heywood district and whose clientele is made in equal parts of wealthy businessmen, gang members and people with questionable tastes. every night she performs 'pon the brightly lit stage, dancing with the gargantuan snake that is always with her, conquering the hearts of her public with the glimpse of sharp fangs and the promise of bloodied absolution [ ... ] it is whispered, amidst those who have encountered her, that she can brew a drug that will save one's brain from the ever - lingering risk of cyberpsychosis. the ambrosia, as serpent refers to it, is greatly requested by those who teeter between sanity and damnation but no one yet knows how it is produced, or whether it is truly successful.

the doors of the butcher's circus are always open but beware, for snakes do not carve the taste of honey and are thus always willing to find new preys.

[amazinganimalsfacts]

Did you know the Pythonidae family is home to about 39 species? They live in Africa, Asia, and Australia. This family includes the famous Burmese python, with hundreds of thousands in Florida's Everglades. These snakes are big and interesting, and they play a big role in their ecosystems. We will explore the python family in detail. We'll look at their classification, behavior, where they live, what they eat, how they reproduce, their conservation status, and their relationship with humans. Key Takeaways The Pythonidae family contains around 39 species and 10 recognized genera. Burmese pythons are a significant introduced species in Florida, with around half a million individuals. Reticulated pythons are among the longest snakes, with some individuals measuring over 10 meters (32.8 feet). Pythons are known for their exceptional hunting techniques and possess heat-sensitive pit organs. This family of snakes lays eggs and, in most species, the females provide warmth to their clutch. Introduction to Pythonidae The Pythonidae overview shows us a fascinating family of snakes called pythons. They are nonvenomous and have about 3789 species. These snakes are among the biggest and strongest in the world. The reticulated python, the largest, can be over 30 feet long. The smallest python, Antaresia Perthensis, is just 24 inches long. This shows the wide range in size within the family. Pythons characteristics stand out in their physical traits. Adults usually weigh about 12 kilograms and are 3 to 6 feet long. Some can even reach up to 23 feet long. They don't have eyelids but have a transparent scale to protect their eyes. Their colors help them blend in with their surroundings, which is key to their survival. The python family introduction also highlights their unique way of reproducing. Female pythons lay between 2 to 100 eggs, depending on the species. After laying eggs, they protect them by coiling around them. Pythons can live for 25 to 35 years, which is quite long for reptiles. https://youtube.com/watch?v=fikJIxMKSeQ Pythons live in warm and wet places like rainforests, grasslands, and woodlands. They are found in Asia, Africa, Oceania, and Australia. But, many species are threatened by habitat loss and poaching. This is why some are listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. What is the Python Family? The python family, known scientifically as Pythonidae, includes large, nonvenomous snakes. They are famous for their unique way of catching prey. This group has about 72 species and is divided into 14 living genera. The variety within the pythonidae classification shows their complex evolution and adaptability. Some well-known genera are Antaresia with six species and Morelia with ten. Others like Python and Liasis also have many species. Each genus has its own special traits, showing how they adapt to different places. Most pythons live in the tropics and subtropics. They can be found from sub-Saharan Africa to Southeast Asia and northern Australia. Unlike many snakes, female pythons lay eggs, which sets them apart from the Boidae family. Even though a few big pythons can be a concern, especially as pets, they are crucial to ecosystems. As nonvenomous snakes, they help keep their habitats healthy by controlling rodent and small mammal populations. GenusNumber of Species/SubspeciesAntaresia6Apodora1Aspidites2Bothrochilus1Leiopython3Liasis6Malayopython5Morelia10Nyctophilopython1Python13Simalia6 Classification of Pythonidae The pythonidae taxonomy is complex, with many genera that show the variety of this snake family. Important genera are Python, Morelia, and Antaresia. Each species is well-suited to its environment. The family has 44 recognized species, including four subspecies. This classification shows how pythons, sunbeam snakes, and some boas are related. Classification of snakes has changed over time. This has led to the discovery of new species and changes in how they are grouped.

Here is a detailed overview of some important genera and corresponding species within the Pythonidae family: GenusSpeciesCommon NamePictures AvailablePythonbrongersmaiRed Blood Python1PythonmolurusIndian Python3PythonregiusBall Python3PythonreticulatusReticulated Python2PythonsebaeAfrican Rock PythonInformation AvailablePythontimoriensisTimor PythonInformation Available The genus and species of pythons are key to understanding their evolution. New species are still being found, showing that we know only a small part of the family. Between 2000 and 2013, twelve new species were added to the classification. Studies have shown complex relationships among pythons, revealing a deep evolutionary history. Characteristics of Pythonidae The Pythonidae family stands out with unique traits. Their physical features and behaviors offer clues to their survival skills. Physical Features of Pythons Pythons are known for their strong muscles. These muscles help them squeeze their prey. They range from 1.5 feet to 33 feet long, showing a wide variety among species. Some pythons are over 20 feet long. Others, like the pygmy pythons, are less than 2 feet long. Here are some key physical traits: Robust muscular structure for effective hunting. Dual lungs—an ancient trait among snakes—allowing for efficient respiration. Backwards-facing teeth that enhance their ability to consume prey that is larger than themselves. Skin patterns that vary, with about one-third of species being almost patternless, and some capable of dramatic color changes. Behavioral Traits of Pythonidae Pythons hunt by ambushing their prey. They wait patiently and use camouflage to hide. Most live alone, fitting into different habitats like deserts, savannas, or rainforests. They are mostly active at night and defend themselves when threatened. Pythons mainly eat vertebrates like lizards, mammals, and birds. Attacks on humans are very rare. These traits show how pythons survive in various places. Distribution and Habitat of Pythons Pythons show how adaptable and resilient they are in different places. They live in many parts of sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, and Australia. These areas have various climates and ecosystems, showing how well these reptiles fit in. Global Range of Pythonidae Species Pythons live in both their natural and new homes. They can be found in: RegionStatusNearcticIntroducedPalearcticNativeOrientalNativeEthiopianNativeNeotropicalIntroducedAustralianNative Preferred Habitats of Pythons Pythons live in many different places, showing their adaptability. They like living in: Tropical Rainforests Temperate Forests Marshes and Swamps Bogs Grasslands Urban Areas Agricultural Lands They can live up to 1,200 to 2,500 meters (3,937 to 8,202 feet) high. Being good swimmers, they also live in wetlands and by the coast. The Burmese pythons in Florida show how they can move into new places. This highlights the need to understand where pythons live for conservation and management. Feeding and Nutrition in Pythonidae Pythons are skilled hunters known for their remarkable feeding habits. They use stealth, patience, and precise technique to hunt. This lets them thrive in diverse environments. Let's take a closer look at their hunting techniques and dietary preferences. Hunting Techniques of Pythons Pythons mainly use ambush tactics to catch their prey. They blend into their surroundings with excellent camouflage, waiting for animals to come close. Their hunting techniques include: Infrared Detection: Pythons have special heat-sensitive pits on their face. These pits help them detect infrared radiation from warm-blooded creatures. This helps them find prey even in complete darkness. Constriction: Once a python grabs its prey, it wraps its body around it to suffocate it before eating. Swallowing Technique: Pythons have a unique way of swallowing large prey. They produce mucus to help the prey go down their long throat.

Dietary Preferences of Python Species The diet of pythons varies by species and habitat. Generally, they eat: Prey TypeCommon ExamplesMammalsRats, mice, small deerBirdsChickens, wild birdsReptilesOther snakes, lizardsOccasional AmphibiansFrogs Pythons' diet is key to their growth and health. Getting the right nutrition helps them live up to 30 years with proper care. Knowing what they eat is important for both wild and captive pythons. Reproduction and Lifecycle of Pythonidae Pythons are fascinating snakes that lay eggs. They have unique ways of reproducing. The female python wraps her eggs to keep them at the right temperature for growth. This is called thermoregulation and shows how pythons adapt to their environment. The lifecycle of pythons includes several stages. Female ball pythons become ready to have babies between 27 and 31 months old. Males are ready a bit earlier, at 16 to 18 months. The eggs take about 44 to 54 days to develop, usually laid from mid-February to early April. Hatchlings come out from mid-April to mid-June, when it's best for their survival. The Burmese python has a different approach. They can lay up to 100 eggs at once. Female Burmese pythons become ready to have babies around 2 to 3 years old. Their eggs develop in just 2 to 3 months, which affects their numbers. Pythons can live a long time, up to 20 years in captivity. In the wild, they usually live about 10 years. Their long life, controlling rodent populations, and helping rural communities shows why we need to understand them better. SpeciesReproductive Maturity (Months)Gestation Period (Days)Clutch Size (Average)Average Lifespan (Years)Ball Python (Python regius)27-31 (Female), 16-18 (Male)44-544020 (Captivity)Burmese Python (Python molurus)24-36 (Both)60-9040-10015.8 (Captivity) Conservation Status of Pythonidae Many python species are in danger due to habitat loss, poaching, and illegal trade. For instance, reticulated pythons, the longest snakes, are at risk because they are popular pets and used in traditional medicine. Efforts to protect these endangered species include laws against illegal capture and promoting sustainable living in their habitats. Python protection is becoming more important, especially for the Indian python and ball python. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) says reticulated pythons and ball pythons are not endangered. Ball pythons are doing well thanks to conservation efforts, even with the pet trade. But, we still need to be aware and take action. The wild ball python population is stable, but taking too many for pets could threaten their future. Python SpeciesConservation StatusLife ExpectancyEgg Clutch SizeThreatsReticulated PythonLeast Concern22 years in the wild, 32 years in captivity20-50 eggs (up to 100 recorded)Illegal trade, habitat loss, human conflictBall PythonLeast Concern20-30 years in captivity, shorter in the wild4-10 eggsPet trade, habitat degradation We need to work together to protect these amazing snakes. Governments, conservation groups, and the public must act. Supporting responsible pet ownership and avoiding wild-caught snakes is crucial for their future. Relationship Between Humans and Pythonidae Humans and pythons have a complex relationship. These snakes are seen as symbols of strength and resilience in many cultures. But, their relationship with humans can be both good and bad, especially in traditional medicine and the python trade. The Role of Pythons in Traditional Medicine In some cultures, pythons are seen as having healing properties. Different parts of the python are used for various treatments. This shows how deeply pythons are connected to local traditions and nature. Impact of Python Poaching and Trade The python trade has grown into a huge industry, driven by demand for their skins and meat. This has led to a big threat to their survival. Conservation efforts are working to reduce the harm of python trade and teach people why we need to protect these reptiles.

Conclusion This journey into the python family shows us how complex and important they are. These snakes play a key role in nature. They have many behaviors and adaptations that help keep ecosystems balanced. It's crucial to protect them as their homes are being destroyed and they are being hunted. There are 44 recognized species of Pythonidae, each with its own story to tell about evolution. Research is ongoing, and we might discover more about these snakes. Humans and pythons have a special connection, showing how important they are to us. We need to work together to protect pythons. By spreading the word about why they matter, we can help communities and leaders understand their value. This way, these amazing snakes can keep living in their natural world, helping our planet stay healthy and full of life. StatisticDataTotal Species in Pythonidae44 speciesNew Taxa Described (2000-2013)12 new taxaTaxonomic Coverage Range0.30% to 0.77%Geographical DistributionSub-Saharan Africa, Asia, Indonesia, Philippines, Papua New Guinea, AustraliaFirst Species DescriptionLinnaeus in 1758Total Identified by 19th Century13 species by 19th centuryTotal New Species in 20th Century15 speciesPotential New DiscoveriesExpected in Southeast AsiaHealth Benefits of Python MeatLow fat and cholesterolSustainability of Python FarmingLower environmental footprint References To understand the Pythonidae family, we need many research sources. Barker and Barker's work on taxonomy is key. They also look at where pythons live. Ashraf explores the geographical spread of pythons, adding to our knowledge. Studies like McDowell's catalogue of snakes show pythons' roles in their ecosystems. The variety of species mentioned highlights the need for conservation. References cover everything from the Burmese Python to Australian species. These studies stress the importance of protecting pythons. They inform us on how to monitor their habitats and breed them. They also talk about the challenges of climate change and invasive species. Research on Pythonidae shows we need to keep learning and protecting these reptiles. Using these sources helps us appreciate the Pythonidae family more. It's crucial for their survival. FAQ What are the main characteristics of the Pythonidae family? The Pythonidae family includes large, nonvenomous snakes. They are known for their strong muscles and unique looks. These snakes hunt by ambushing and have special teeth for eating large prey. How are Pythonidae species classified? Pythonidae species are classified into several genera like Python, Morelia, and Antaresia. Each species fits into a specific environment. Their classification shows how they are related to other snakes. Where are pythons primarily found? Pythons live mainly in sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, and Australia. They live in many places, from forests to grasslands. They are good swimmers and adjust to different climates. What do pythons eat? Pythons eat mammals, birds, and sometimes reptiles and amphibians. They hunt by ambushing and have a special way of swallowing their prey with the help of mucus. How do pythons reproduce? Pythons lay eggs that the female coils around to keep warm. This helps the eggs develop properly. What threats do Pythonidae face? Python species are threatened by habitat loss, hunting, and the illegal wildlife trade. We need conservation efforts to protect them and their homes. How do humans interact with pythons? Humans have many interactions with pythons, like using them in traditional medicine and trading their skins. But, poaching and exploitation threaten their survival. We need sustainable practices to help them.

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Published on YouTube: What Happened to the Baby Shark Meme Craze?

Python Welcome to our fascinating exploration of pythons, those incredible giants of the snake world. Let’s delve into some amazing and fun facts about these mesmerizing creatures! First off, pythons are non-venomous snakes belonging to the family Pythonidae. They are found in Africa, Asia, and Australia, thriving in a diverse array of environments from rainforests to grasslands. One of the most…

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List of Families within Squamata I’ve covered (each link leads to the tags for each family):

Agamidae

Anguidae

Colubridae

Dactyloidae

Lacertidae

Phrynosomatidae

Pythonidae

Scincidae

Sphaerodactylidae

Varanidae

Viperidae

[herpsandbirds]

Murray-Darling Carpet Python (Morelia spilota metcalfei), family Pythonidae, Murray-Darling basin, SE Australia

photographs by Mick Fullerton Wildlife

[professionalunprofessional]

What a pretty snake! And with such gorgeous and colorful scales, too bad I couldn’t get a pic of his head :(

[dougdimmadodo]

Animals of the Photo Ark - Malaysian Blood Python (Python brongersmai)

Family: Python Family (Pythonidae)

IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern

This unusually thick-bodied python gets its name from vivid red colouration exhibited by some individuals, although other members of the species may be a duller rusty red, pale orange or (like the individual above) dark brown. Found in scattered populations across south-eastern Asia, it naturally inhabits wet, swampy lowland habitats but may also be found in human-made habitats, particularly oil palm plantations where it is attracted by the presence of rats. Malaysian Blood Pythons are most active at dawn and dusk, typically spending the day sheltering beneath bushes or in water before emerging to hunt for small mammals and birds, which they kills via constriction. Every two years, females of this species (which grow to be larger than males) mate, after which they lay clutches of 12-16 eggs which, unlike some pythons, they are not known to care for. Although not currently considered threatened, Malaysian Blood Python populations have suffered some declines following extensive hunting for their skin (which is sold internationally as snake leather) and to fulfill the demand for the species as an exotic pet.

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The photo above is from the National Geographic Photo Ark, and was taken by Joel Sartore. To see more of Sartore’s amazing work and support the Photo Ark, follow the link below:

https://www.nationalgeographic.org/projects/photo-ark/?locale=en

[reptilemother30]

Green Tree Python (Morelia Viridis)

Native Habitat The green tree python is a species of snake belonging to the family Pythonidae. They are native to New Guinea, Indonesia , and Cape York Peninsula of Australia. They can be found from the lowlands shrubs to montane forests. On average they grow from 5 to 6 feet in length, but can get up to 7 feet long; making them a small to medium sized arboreal species. They are non-venomous and highly nocturnal creatures and they seldom move during daylight hours.

Information Know as "chondros" to breeders and hobbyists for their original genus Chondropython. They are a permanent pet if chosen since they can have a lifespan of 20 years. In the wild they will use their skinny tails to entice potential prey items in close enough to strike when the time is right. They can be considered a more exotic species when compared to a common ball python or corn snake. They are more of an adult or experienced type of pet in terms of handling and care.