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Hydrophis
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Hydrophis

snake genus
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Quick Summary

The genus Hydrophis is a group of sea snakes belonging to the family Hydrophiidae. These are highly venomous marine snakes related to cobras. While their venom is potent, they are not aggressive, and human fatalities are rare due to small venom output and short fangs.12

Hydrophis snakes are adapted to marine life with flattened bodies, oarlike tails, and nostrils on top of their snouts. They are found in the coastal waters of the Indian and western Pacific oceans. These snakes primarily feed on fish, with some species specializing in burrowing eels. They can remain submerged for extended periods, partly due to their ability to absorb oxygen through their skin.2

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3 Britannica Sources
  1. sea snake
  2. Hydrophis
  3. Hydrophidae

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