How These Snakes Evolved to Spit… IN YOUR EYE

The video explores the unique defense mechanism of spitting cobras, which evolved to eject venom at threats, particularly targeting the eyes. This adaptation is linked to the evolutionary pressure exerted by hominins, who posed a significant threat to these snakes. The venom of spitting cobras is distinct, containing toxins that enhance pain rather than lethality, and this trait evolved independently in different snake lineages. The video also discusses the historical context of these evolutionary changes, suggesting a correlation between the emergence of bipedal hominins and the development of venom spitting in cobras.

What evolutionary advantage do spitting cobras gain from their ability to spit venom?

How does the venom of spitting cobras differ from that of other cobras?

What role did early hominins play in the evolution of spitting cobras?

Describe the process by which spitting cobras eject venom.

What is convergent evolution, and how does it relate to spitting cobras?