Title
A critical evaluation of two historic records of large Python
Author(s)
Platt, S.G.;Rainwater, T.R.
Published
2015
Publisher
Herpetological Review
Abstract
Humans have long been fascinated by large snakes, which invoke emotions ranging from fear and revulsion to curiosity, wonderment, and at times, veneration and reverence (Minton and Minton 1973; Morris and Morris 1965; Murphy and Henderson 1997; Pope 1961; Strothers 2004). From a scientific standpoint, reports of large reptiles are of interest from both an ecological and evolutionary perspective, and knowledge of asymptotic body size is a necessary prerequisite for understanding patterns of growth (Woodward et al. 1995). Much of what is known concerning the maximum body size attained by various giant snakes (species known to exceed 20 feet [609 cm] in total length sensu Murphy and Henderson 1997) is based on anecdotal accounts penned by explorers, travelers, colonial officials, and early naturalists, all with varying degrees of education and biological expertise (Minton and Minton 1973; Murphy and Henderson 1997). As such, these accounts are often difficult to interpret, but nonetheless can provide important insights into the biology of giant snakes (Murphy and Henderson 1997).
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PUB15667