Pronunciation: [ɒfˈɪdi͡ə] (IPA) 
The word "ophidia" is a term used to describe the order of reptiles that includes snakes. The spelling of "ophidia" follows standard English spelling conventions, with the "o" pronounced as /o/ and the "ph" pronounced as /f/. The "i" in the word is pronounced as /ɪ/ and the "d" is pronounced as /d/. The phonetic transcription for "ophidia" is /əʊˈfɪdɪə/. The word derives from the Greek language, where "ophis" means snake.
Ophidia refers to a taxonomic order of reptiles commonly known as snakes. Derived from the Greek word "ophis" meaning "snake," Ophidia includes over 3,500 species of elongated, legless, and carnivorous reptiles. Snakes are exclusively found in almost all parts of the world, barring certain remote regions such as Antarctica and a few isolated islands. They inhabit a wide range of habitats, including forests, grasslands, deserts, and aquatic environments, exhibiting impressive adaptability.
Characterized by their slender bodies and highly flexible bones, snakes have evolved specialized adaptations for locomotion without limbs. Their elongated design enables them to move smoothly and swiftly, while their scales provide protection and aid in traction. Most Ophidia possess long fangs that they employ to inject venom into their prey, immobilizing or killing it before consumption. Not all snakes are venomous, however, and some species instead constrict their prey to subdue it.
Snakes vary considerably in size, with species ranging from a few centimeters to several meters in length. Their diets are typically carnivorous, and they consume a variety of prey such as insects, small mammals, birds, and even other snakes. Some snakes possess infrared-sensing abilities, allowing them to detect warm-blooded prey in the dark.
The order Ophidia offers abundant diversity in terms of physical characteristics, habitat preferences, and ecological roles. While fascination with their unique biology, intriguing behavior, and distinctive appearance draws interest from both scientists and laypeople alike, snakes have played significant roles in various cultural, mythological, and religious contexts throughout human history.
The word "ophidia" derives from the Greek term "ophis" meaning "snake".
