Answer:
The correct answer is:
b) scales
Step-by-step explanation:
Snakes have scales on their bodies to protect them. These scales are specialized, flat, and overlapping structures made of keratin, the same material found in human fingernails and hair. These scales serve several important functions:
1. **Protection:** Scales act as a protective barrier against external threats. They help shield the snake's body from abrasions, injuries, and potential predators.
2. **Reduced Water Loss:** Scales are relatively impermeable to water, which helps snakes reduce water loss through their skin. This is especially crucial for snakes that live in arid environments.
3. **Ease of Movement:** The smooth, overlapping nature of scales reduces friction as the snake moves through various terrains. It allows for more efficient locomotion.
4. **Camouflage:** Scales often have colors and patterns that aid in camouflage, helping the snake blend into its surroundings and avoid detection by both prey and predators.
5. **Sensory Functions:** Some scales are modified into specialized structures, such as heat-sensitive pits or sensory pits, which help snakes detect changes in temperature and locate prey.