Vesikantid

Vesikantid is a family of venomous snakes found in the Americas, belonging to the subfamily Crotalinae within the family Viperidae. The name "Vesikantid" is derived from the Latin word "vesica," meaning bladder, and "cantare," meaning to sing, referring to the distinctive hissing sound these snakes make when threatened. This family includes several genera, with the most well-known being Bothrops, which contains the fer-de-lance and the bushmaster. Vesikantids are characterized by their triangular-shaped heads, heat-sensing pits between the eyes and nostrils, and a pair of fangs that deliver a potent neurotoxic venom. Their venom is primarily used for hunting and defense, and it can cause severe symptoms in humans, including paralysis, respiratory failure, and even death. Vesikantids are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and deserts, and they play a significant role in their ecosystems as both predators and prey. Despite their venomous nature, vesikantids are not typically aggressive towards humans and will usually only bite when threatened or provoked.