Sea snakesHydrophiinae

Sea snakes (Hydrophiinae) are a group of fully aquatic, live-bearing reptiles, generally reaching 1 to 1.5 meters (3 to 5 ft) in length. They are recognized by a vertically flattened tail, which assists propulsion, and nostrils that can be sealed. Despite their widespread presence in the 🌊 Persian Gulf and coasts of 🇴🇲 Oman, sea snakes are absent from the 🌊 Red Sea, a distribution likely caused by cold upwelling off the southern Arabian Peninsula.

These animals exhibit adaptations for a marine existence, including partial respiration through their skin, which can absorb up to 20% of oxygen and release all carbon dioxide. Excess salt is excreted via a sublingual gland. With limited eyesight, they navigate and locate prey by tasting water with their tongue and sensing body vibrations. Dives can extend to 100 meters (330 ft) and last up to two hours, often preceded by rapid surface breathing. They commonly hunt eels and small fish within burrows and crevices.