Scutum supralabiale

Mouth of a diamond python

The Supralabialen ( supralabials , singular Supralabiale , actually supralabial scale ;.. From Latin supra "above" and labium "lip") often referred to as upper lip shields or -schuppen called, are at Schuppenkriechtieren the head scales that run along the upper jaw edge of the mouth opening. The rostral , which forms the anterior end of the two supralabial rows, is not included in this. On the lower jaw these scales are opposite to the sub- labials .

As with all other head shields, the number, shape, size and formation of the supralabials is an important determinant within the snake system .

literature

• Roland Bauchot (Ed.): Snakes . Bechtermünz Verlag, Augsburg 1998. ISBN 3-8289-1501-9