Changes

Snakes do not have thoracic limbs, a sternum or pectoral girdle but a pelvic girdle may be present. In these species there may be external spurs which may be important during courtship, particularly in the [[Pythoninae|pythons]].

Snakes do not have thoracic limbs, a sternum or pectoral girdle but a pelvic girdle may be present. In these species there may be external spurs which may be important during courtship, particularly in the [[Pythoninae|pythons]].

* '''For more information, see''' [[Snake Reproductive System]].

* '''For more information on reproduction, see''' [[Snake Reproductive System]].

 

==Vertebrae and ribs==

==Vertebrae and ribs==

The number of dorsal vertebrae may number from 80 to over 400. Each of these (except the first two) has a pair of ribs that form a tube to protect the internal organs. The vertebrae have more articulating facets than in mammals and this results in great mobility. The ribs extend to the ventral scales to which they are attached by muscles. Caudal autotomy may occur in some species of [[Colubridae|colubrids]].

The number of dorsal vertebrae may number from 80 to over 400. Each of these (except the first two) has a pair of ribs that form a tube to protect the internal organs. The vertebrae have more articulating facets than in mammals and this results in great mobility. The ribs extend to the ventral scales to which they are attached by muscles. Caudal autotomy may occur in some species of [[Colubridae|colubrids]].