The scales of the African Viper Bitis arietans were tested for optical effects.Spectral intensity was recorded at incident angles over the visible spectrum for dark, pale, and ventral scale regions.The lowest spectral intensity recordings were associated Collections with scales which have the greatest level of micro-structuring.
Our results indicate that scale appearance in B.arietans is a product of microstructure-mediated optical effects.The optical effect may play a role in Calcium Supplements improving the ecological performance of the snake in its natural environment.