How Do You Spell CROTALINE?

Pronunciation: [kɹˈə͡ʊtəlˌa͡ɪn] (IPA)

The word "Crotaline" refers to a group of venomous snakes found in North and South America. The correct pronunciation of this word is [kroh-tuh-lin], with emphasis on the first syllable. The "c" in the beginning is pronounced as the voiceless velar stop sound [k]. The "o" is pronounced as the vowel sound [oh], and the "a" as the short vowel sound [uh]. The final "e" is silent, as is common in many words borrowed from Latin or Greek.

CROTALINE Meaning and Definition

1. Crotaline is an adjective that is used to describe something related to or characteristic of the Crotalinae subfamily of venomous snakes. The subfamily Crotalinae, commonly referred to as crotaline or pit vipers, includes species of venomous snakes found primarily in the Americas, such as rattlesnakes, copperheads, and cottonmouths.

   These snakes are characterized by the presence of specialized heat-sensing organs or pits between their eyes and nostrils, which allow them to detect and accurately target warm-blooded prey even in darkness. The venom of crotaline snakes is primarily hemotoxic, meaning it affects the blood and blood vessels. It contains various enzymes and proteins that can cause tissue damage, disrupt blood clotting, and lead to severe systemic effects.

   When referring to a substance in relation to crotaline snakes, it often denotes that the substance is directly derived from or associated with these venomous snakes. For example, crotaline antivenin is a specific type of antivenom that is designed to counteract the effects of crotaline snakebites. Similarly, crotaline venom proteins may be studied to develop new pharmaceutical drugs or for scientific research purposes.

   In summary, the term "crotaline" relates to the subfamily of Crotalinae snakes or pit vipers, and can be used to describe their characteristics, venom, or any substances derived from or associated with these venomous snakes.

Common Misspellings for CROTALINE

• rotaline

Etymology of CROTALINE

The word "Crotaline" is derived from the Latin term "crotalus", which means "rattlesnake". Rattlesnakes belong to the subfamily Crotalinae, hence the term "Crotaline" is used to refer to anything pertaining to or associated with rattlesnakes or this subfamily of venomous snakes.