CLASS 9
THE SNAKE AND THE MIRROR
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Question
[CLICK ON ANY CHOICE TO KNOW THE RIGHT ANSWER]
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SNAKE
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COBRA
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PYTHON
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None of the above
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Detailed explanation-1: -King Cobras Fear the Mongoose Mongooses are noted for their audacious attacks on highly venomous snakes, such as king cobras. The mongoose preys on the king cobra, and they do so very successfully.
Detailed explanation-2: -The mongoose is known for its ability to fight and kill venomous snakes, especially cobras. Their specialised acetylcholine receptors render them immune to venom, while their thick coats and quick speed also come in handy during conflicts.
Detailed explanation-3: -Cobras actually fear mongooses so much that they try to avoid confrontation with their formidable little opponent. Due to the mongooses natural defense against snake venom the only way a cobra can kill them is with several bites. However, mongooses actually win around 75 to 80 percent of fights with cobras.
Detailed explanation-4: -It is no doubt that king cobras do occasionally consume large prey such as monitor lizards or even pythons. One cannot but wonder how the snake is able to make dynamic decisions and evaluate the risks and gains of pursuing prey such as a rock python, which can potentially kill the cobra by constricting it.