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Caiman crocodilus crocodilus and Anilius scytale
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Caiman crocodilus crocodilus and Anilius scytale
Spectacled caiman and South American false coral snake. Plate 69 from Metamorphosis Insectorum Surinamensium of de Verandering der Surinaamsche Insecten (1705) by A. Maria Sybilla Merian (1647-1717)
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Media ID 8612629
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10709328
1668 1773 17th Century 18th Century Anna Maria Sibylla Merian Anthozoa Anthozoan Arthropod Arthropoda Caiman Carnivore Cnidaria Cnidarian Coelenterata Coelenterate Coral Crocdilian Alligatoridae Caiman Crocodilus Common Caiman
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EDITORS COMMENTS
Plate 69 from Metamorphosis Insectorum Surinamensium, a seminal work by the renowned naturalist Anna Maria Sibylla Merian (1647-1717), showcases two fascinating creatures of the New World: the Spectacled Caiman (Caiman crocodilus crocodilus) and the South American False Coral Snake (Anilius scytale). Merian's meticulous illustrations, produced between 1668 and 1773, offer a captivating glimpse into the natural history of Surinam, a Dutch colony in South America. The common caiman, a member of the Alligatoridae family, is depicted in this plate with its distinctive "spectacles," or dark patches around its eyes. This large, powerful reptile is a carnivore, feeding primarily on fish, amphibians, and birds. The caiman's elongated snout, covered in rough scales, is an adaptation for capturing and holding onto its prey. Intriguingly positioned beside the caiman is the South American False Coral Snake (Anilius scytale), a member of the Aniliidae family. This snake is not actually a coral snake, but rather a harmless, non-venomous species. Anilius scytale is characterized by its vibrant, banded pattern, which mimics the appearance of more dangerous coral snakes. This adaptation likely serves as a defense mechanism against predators, as potential threats may be deterred from approaching due to the snake's resemblance to venomous species. Merian's detailed observations and illustrations of these animals, along with her groundbreaking work on the metamorphosis of insects, continue to inspire and inform our understanding of the natural world. This plate from Metamorphosis Insectorum Surinamensium is a testament to Merian's dedication and her significant contributions to the fields of natural history and scientific illustration.
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