The Development of the Skull of the Egyptian Cobra Naja h. haje (Squamata: Serpentes: Elapidae)

摘要: Background: The study of craniofacial development is important in understanding the ontogenetic processes behind morphological diversity. A complete description embryonic skull Egyptian cobra, Naja h. haje, lacking and there has been little comparative discussion either among elapid snakes or between them other snakes. Methodology/Principal Findings: We present a through full sequence developmental stages compare it to Associated soft tissues head are noted where relevant. first visible ossification centres supratemporal, prearticular surangular, with slight parts maxilla, prefrontal, dentary. Epiotic supraoccipital, body supraoccipital forms from tectum posterior not synoticum. venom glands as distinct bodies early at stage 5 enlarge later extend otic capsule maxilla level anterior margin eye. gland becomes more prominent shortly before hatching, concomitant fangs. tongue shows incipient forking 5, fully bifid 6. Conclusions/significance: detailed staging series cranial for haje. This one studies since classical works G. de Beer W. Parker that provides an advanced snake species. It allows us correct errors misinterpretations previous accounts which were based on small sample specimens uncertain age. Our results highlight potentially significant variation formation squamates need further research this area.