serpents

Serpents are a widespread group of legless reptiles belonging to the suborder Serpentes. They comprise about 3,000 species across several families, including Colubridae, Viperidae, Elapidae, Boidae, and Pythonidae. The term serpent is commonly used in biology and literature to refer to snakes, distinguishing them from lizards and other reptiles.

Anatomy and evolution of serpents are marked by elongation, scale-covered bodies, and the absence of limbs. Most possess a highly flexible skull and jaw that can detach or expand to swallow prey larger than the head. The fossil record shows snakes evolving from lizard-like ancestors, with limb loss and body elongation adapting them to a range of ecological niches, including burrowing, swimming, and hunting in trees or on the ground.

Serpents inhabit a wide array of environments worldwide, from forests and deserts to oceans. Their diets are diverse, typically consisting of small vertebrates, eggs, or invertebrates. Reproduction varies by species: many snakes lay eggs (oviparous), while others give birth to live young (viviparous or ovoviviparous). Some species, such as many sea snakes, are highly specialized for aquatic life.

Venom and prey capture are central to many snakes. Venomous snakes use fangs to inject toxins that aid in prey immobilization, while non-venomous snakes commonly kill by constriction or simply ingest prey. The venom composition and delivery methods differ among families, with notable examples including elapids (cobras, kraits, mambas) and viperids (vipers and pitvipers). Human encounters range from nuisance to medically significant envenomation in rural and urban regions.

The word serpent derives from Latin serpens, meaning "creeping." Serpents have played prominent roles in culture, symbolism, and mythology, and they continue to be a focus of biology, medicine, and conservation.