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There are two explanations:
1. Efficiency - The Sidewinder lives generally in dry, hot and sandy environments.
The normal mode of propulsion of snakes requires a somewhat solid surface,
as the belly scales, moved in a peristaltic fashion, push against the surface. In a
environment with very loose sand, which can act almost like a fluid, the scales find
very little resistance and hence would produce very little propulsion. The motion
of the sidewinder uses entire segments of its body to act as a "foot" or "stand"
from which to propel itself forward, then re-coils and starts over, thus affording
it more resistance from the sand and in turn better propulsion.
2. Heat - By keeping only intermittent contact with the sand the snake lowers its
heat absorption and prolongs the time it can spend in the open.
While both explanations are perfectly reasonable, it seem to make more sense that
the evolutionary reason for the Sidewinder's movement is most likely the propulsion,
where as the heat aspect is a minor benefit.
What else can I help you with?
Can a flute that is played frontwerds can it be played sideways?
yes sidewinder
What snakes crawl sideways?
Most snakes will use a sidewinding motion when moving in loose sand. The sidewinder rattlesnake has perfected the movement.
Why is a sidewinder snake called a sidewinder snake?
Because of the way it moves over the sand. It travels by keeping the majority of it's body off the hot sand. Using a rippling motion, it travels 'sideways' to the direction it's facing (hence the name sidewinder)
Can worms move sideways?
Yes they move in a sideways Whip-like motion
Can a helicopter fly sideways?
move the cyclic sideways
Is a sidewinder a carnivore herbivore or omnivore?
A sidewinder is a carnivore. This snake primarily preys on small mammals, lizards, and other small animals. Its diet consists mainly of animal-based foods, which it captures using its unique sideways movement and hunting techniques.
How fast do sidewinder snakes go?
Sidewinder snakes move at a relatively slow speed compared to other snake species, usually around 3-5 miles per hour. They use a unique sideways movement called "sidewinding" to navigate sandy or loose substrate efficiently.
Does a lobster move sideways?
no, they don't, there body makes it hard for them to do so, only crabs move sideways
What does a sidewinder look like?
A Sidewinder Rattlesnake is a foot or two long and is tan or brown in color with dark patches. You can tell it is a Sidewinder by looking at its head. They have raised scales about their eyes that look like horns.
How do haematococcus move?
Sideways
Can you move sideways when you are not a king?
no
How do crabs move?
feet
