Bitis Arietans (Noun)
Meaning
Large African viper that inflates its body when alarmed.
Classification
Nouns denoting animals.
Examples
- The _Bitis arietans_, known for being the largest viper species in Africa, will inflate its body when alarmed to deter predators.
- _Bitis arietans_ are primarily nocturnal species and their ability to inflate when threatened often deters other nocturnal animals from approaching them.
- In cases where humans encounter _Bitis arietans_, the large viper may raise and inflate its body creating a threatening sight, which often leads to caution.
- Despite the inflating behavior exhibited by the _Bitis arietans_, the species hasn't deterred many predators from feeding on the large viper, especially predators that prey on venomous snakes.
- A startled _Bitis arietans_ inflates its body in several seconds, warning neighboring vertebrates of its potent venom from a distance if necessary.