Anal scale facts for kids

The anal scale (also called the anal plate) is a special scale found on the underside of a snake. It's located just in front of the snake's cloaca, which is the opening where the snake's waste exits its body. This scale is important because it can look different depending on the type of snake.

An undivided anal scale on an elapid snake.

A divided anal scale on a Ptyas mucosus snake, which is a colubrid. You can see the undivided scales on its belly to the left and the divided scales on its tail to the right.

Types of Anal Scales

The anal scale can appear in one of two ways:

• Single (or undivided): This means the scale is one solid piece. It's often called "anal entire."
• Divided (or paired): This means the scale is split into two parts. When it's divided, the split usually runs diagonally.

The type of anal scale a snake has is a useful feature for scientists. It helps them figure out what kind of snake they are looking at.

Scales Near the Anal Scale

The anal scale isn't alone! It's surrounded by other important scales:

• Ventral scales: These are the large, wide scales that run along the snake's belly, right before the anal scale. They help the snake grip the ground and move.
• Subcaudal scales: These scales are found on the underside of the snake's tail, right after the anal scale. Like the anal scale, subcaudal scales can also be single or divided, and this also helps identify different snake species.

Why Snake Scales are Important

Snake scales, including the anal scale, are made of a tough material called keratin, which is the same material your fingernails are made of. These scales protect the snake's body, help it move, and even reduce friction as it slithers. Learning about different scales helps us understand the amazing variety in the snake world!

See Also

In Spanish: Escama anal para niños