The Strange Life of the Sea Krait
In The Strange Life of the Sea Krait, narrator Sir David Attenborough discovers the mysterious sea krait snake, a reptile that has completely adapted to life underwater. Unlike most land-dwelling reptiles, the female sea krait only leaves the ocean when it's time to lay her eggs, finding secret caverns with air pockets. Six months later, the baby snakes hatch and make their way back to the water, continuing this fascinating cycle. This video is excerpted from BBC's Life, a show that explores the remarkable strategies animals and plants use to ensure their survival.
Lesson Express
Q: Why is it crucial for sea kraits to find a location above the water to lay their eggs, and what could happen if they didn’t?
A: It is essential for sea kraits to lay their eggs above the water because the eggs require air to survive. If the eggs were left underwater, they would suffocate and drown due to the lack of oxygen. This adaptation ensures that the eggs can develop properly.
Q: How does the sea krait’s ability to live in both water and on land give it an advantage over other reptiles?
A: The sea krait’s ability to thrive in both aquatic and terrestrial environments gives it a unique advantage by allowing it to avoid predators in the water while also finding a safe, air-filled space to lay its eggs. This adaptability helps the species survive in challenging environments where other reptiles might struggle.
Q: What might happen to the sea krait’s survival if climate change or human activity altered the locations of their egg-laying caves?
A: It could prevent the sea kraits from finding the necessary safe space to lay their eggs. Without access to these air-filled caverns, the eggs would not survive, leading to a decrease in the sea krait population.