Ophiophagus hannah CANTOR 1836

King Cobra

Species recognized by P Uetz, TIGR Reptile Database external link in 
IUCN Red List Status: NOT EVALUATED external link Showing: scientific names

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Ophiophagus hannah CANTOR 1836

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Ophiophagus hannah
Ophiophagus hannah (Cantor, 1836)
Ophiophagus hannah (Cantor, 1836)
Ophiophagus hannah (Cantor, 1836)
Ophiophagus hannah (Cantor, 1836)
Ophiophagus hannah (Cantor, 1836)
Ophiophagus hannah (Cantor, 1836)
Ophiophagus hannah (Cantor, 1836)
Ophiophagus hannah (Cantor, 1836)

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General Description

Pocket-like structures produce hissing sounds: king cobra

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©2008-2009, The Biomimicry Institute. Some rights reserved external link
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The Biomimicry Institute
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Citation

 

Pocket-like structures extending from the trachea of a king cobra help produce the snake's growl-like hisses by serving as low-frequency resonance chambers.

   
  "In 1991, studies conducted by Dr. Bruce Young of Hollins College, Virginia, with king cobras (Ophiophagus hannah) suggest that although they have only vestigial ears, they are able to hear their characteristic, unusually deep, growl-like hisses. These are believed to be produced via pocket-like structures called diverticula extending from the trachea that seem to function as low-frequency resonance chambers. Clearly, there is still a lot to learn about the mechanisms and limits of snake vocalization, especially in view of the controversial claims that have been made for the abilities of certain species." (Shuker 2001:155)
  Learn more about this functional adaptation.
References
  • Shuker, KPN. 2001. The Hidden Powers of Animals: Uncovering the Secrets of Nature. London: Marshall Editions Ltd. 240 p.
Katja Schulz. Curator. "Ophiophagus hannah CANTOR 1836". Encyclopedia of Life, available from "http://www.eol.org/pages/1055746". Accessed 20 Mar 2010.