Urutu Snake: History, Facts, Size, Habitat, Classification & Much More

By Tyler Swan

Reptiles come in all shapes and sizes, and one fascinating species that deserves our attention is the Urutu snake. The Urutu snake, also known by its scientific name Bothrops alternatus, is a venomous serpent native to South America. In this blog post, we will delve into the history, facts, size, habitat, and classification of this intriguing reptile.

The Urutu snake has a long history dating back thousands of years. It has been a prominent figure in South American folklore and is often depicted in indigenous art. It is well-known for its distinctive appearance, with a stocky body covered in beautiful scales that can range from tan and brown to olive green. This reptile can grow up to six feet in length, making it one of the largest pit vipers found in South America.

Habitat-wise, the Urutu snake is found in a variety of environments, including forests, grasslands, and even near human settlements. It is a versatile reptile that can adapt to different ecosystems, but it prefers to reside close to water sources. When it comes to classification, the Urutu snake belongs to the Viperidae family, which includes many other venomous reptiles.

So, if you are passionate about reptiles, the Urutu snake is one reptile’s name that should not be missed in your catalogue of knowledge. It is a truly fascinating creature with a rich history, unique traits, and a striking appearance that captures the imagination. Stay tuned for more exciting articles on reptiles, as we already have an extensive collection covering over 155 reptile species.

History of Urutu Snake

The Urutu snake is a reptile that has a fascinating history. It is native to South America and is known for its venomous bite. The snake has played a significant role in the lives of indigenous people and has been a subject of interest for scientists and researchers.

In ancient times, the indigenous people of South America revered the Urutu snake. They believed that the snake possessed mystical powers and used its venom for various purposes, including medicinal and spiritual practices. The indigenous tribes would often seek the snake’s venom for healing rituals and ceremonies.

As time progressed, scientists became interested in studying the Urutu snake due to its unique characteristics. They discovered that the venom of the snake is composed of various toxins that can have both harmful and beneficial effects. The venom was found to be a potent weapon used by the snake to catch its prey and defend itself from predators.

Today, the Urutu snake continues to be a subject of scientific research. Scientists are studying its venom to develop new medicines and treatments for various diseases. They are also working towards conserving the snake’s natural habitat to ensure its survival in the future.

In conclusion, the Urutu snake has a rich history and holds a special place in the cultural and scientific realms. Its venom has been revered and studied by both indigenous people and scientists, highlighting its significance in various aspects of life. The snake’s story continues to unfold as researchers seek to understand its secrets and work towards its conservation.

Importance of Urutu Snake

The Urutu snake reptile is very important for our ecosystem. It plays a significant role in controlling the population of rats and other small animals. This helps to maintain balance in nature. Without the Urutu snake, the number of rats would increase rapidly and cause damage to crops and spread diseases.

Additionally, the venom of the Urutu snake has medicinal properties. Many researchers are studying its venom to develop new drugs and treatments for diseases like cancer and high blood pressure. Scientists believe that studying the venom of the Urutu snake could lead to new breakthroughs in medicine, saving many lives in the future.

Moreover, the Urutu snake is important for educational purposes. Learning about different animals and reptiles is an essential part of our education. Studying the Urutu snake helps us understand biodiversity and how each species contributes to the overall health of our planet. By learning about the Urutu snake, we can also develop a greater appreciation for nature and the animals that live in it.

In conclusion, the Urutu snake reptile is important for maintaining the balance of our ecosystem, its venom holds potential for medical advancements, and it contributes to our education and understanding of nature. We need to recognize the significance of the Urutu snake and work towards its conservation to ensure a healthy and sustainable future for our planet.

Amazing Facts About Urutu Snake

1. The Urutu snake reptile, also known as Bothrops alternatus, is a venomous snake species found in South America.

2. These snakes belong to the Viperidae family and are known for their distinctive triangular-shaped heads.

3. Urutu snakes can grow up to an average length of 3 to 4 feet, with some individuals reaching up to 5 feet.

4. They have a thick and robust body, covered with scales that can vary in color from yellowish-brown to dark brown.

5. These snakes are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and even urban areas.

6. Urutu snakes are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the nighttime.

7. They are ambush predators, relying on their camouflage and patience to surprise unsuspecting prey that ventures close enough.

8. Their diet primarily consists of small mammals, birds, frogs, and lizards. They are also known to feed on other snakes.

9. Urutu snakes possess powerful venom, which they inject into their prey through their long, hollow fangs.

10. This venom is hemotoxic, meaning it affects the victim’s blood and blood vessels, leading to tissue damage and potential organ failure.

11. When threatened, Urutu snakes can adopt a defensive posture, coiling their body, raising their head, and vibrating their tail, creating a rattling sound similar to that of a rattlesnake.

12. Despite their venomous nature, these snakes are generally non-aggressive and will only bite if they feel threatened or provoked.

13. The reproduction cycle of Urutu snakes involves internal fertilization, after which the females give birth to live young instead of laying eggs.

14. Female Urutu snakes give birth to an average of 15 to 25 offspring, which are fully independent at birth and do not require parental care.

15. Due to habitat loss, agricultural expansion, and human activities, the population of Urutu snakes has declined in certain regions, emphasizing the need for their conservation and protection.

Can we keep Urutu Snake as our Pet?

No, we cannot keep the Urutu Snake reptile as a pet. The Urutu Snake is a fascinating creature, but it is not suitable or legal to have them as pets.

The Urutu Snake, also known as Bothrops alternatus, is a venomous snake found in South America. It is a large and dangerous reptile that requires specific care and conditions. Due to its venomous nature, it can be highly risky to have them as pets, especially for inexperienced individuals. The venom of the Urutu Snake is powerful and can cause severe harm or even be fatal to humans and other animals.

Moreover, it is essential to protect and preserve these reptiles in their natural habitat. Unfortunately, the Urutu Snake is facing the risk of extinction, primarily due to habitat loss and human activities. As responsible individuals, it is crucial for us to respect and conserve the natural environment of these creatures. Keeping them as pets could contribute further to their decline, preventing their recovery and ultimately leading to their extinction.

Therefore, it is best to admire and appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of the Urutu Snake from a safe distance and support conservation efforts to ensure the survival of these magical reptiles in their natural homes. Let us protect and cherish the diverse creatures that inhabit our planet and learn from them while ensuring that they thrive in their appropriate habitats.

Size of Urutu Snake

The Urutu snake, also known as Bothrops alternatus, is a reptile that can be found in South America, specifically in countries such as Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay. This snake is well-known for its impressive size, as it can reach up to 5 feet long. Imagine a snake almost as tall as an adult human!

The Urutu snake is considered to be one of the larger snake species. Its body is thick and muscular, making it a formidable predator in its habitat. The head of the Urutu snake is broad and triangular, which helps it catch and swallow its prey. Its color can vary, ranging from a light brown to a darker shade of olive or green. This coloring allows it to blend into its surroundings and stay hidden from potential threats.

Despite its size and appearance, the Urutu snake is not usually aggressive towards humans. However, it can be dangerous if provoked or if it feels threatened. It has powerful venom, which it uses to immobilize its prey. If bitten by an Urutu snake, it is important to seek medical attention immediately as its venom can cause severe pain and even tissue damage.

In summary, the Urutu snake is a large reptile found in South America. It can grow up to 5 feet long and has a muscular body and a broad triangular head. Although it is not normally aggressive towards humans, it possesses venom that can be dangerous if provoked. If you ever encounter an Urutu snake, remember to keep your distance and appreciate it from afar!

Habitat of Urutu Snake

The Urutu snake reptile can be found in the warm and tropical habitats of South America. These habitats are known as the Cerrado biome, which is characterized by vast grasslands, savannas, and scrub forests. The Urutu snake specifically inhabits regions of Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina, where the climate is hot and humid.

In the Cerrado biome, the Urutu snake prefers to live in areas with abundant vegetation and access to water sources, such as rivers or swamps. They can also be found in forests near farmlands or human settlements. This snake is well-adapted to its habitat, as its camouflage allows it to blend in with the surrounding vegetation, protecting it from predators and helping it ambush its prey.

The Urutu snake reptile is a very adaptable species, capable of living in various types of environments within the Cerrado biome. They have the ability to withstand both dry and wet seasons, as they can aestivate (a type of hibernation) during the dry months and become more active during the rainy season when food is plentiful. This reptile relies on its excellent sense of smell and heat-sensing pits to locate its prey, which mainly includes small mammals and birds.

In conclusion, the habitat of the Urutu snake reptile is the warm and tropical Cerrado biome found in South America. This snake prefers areas with dense vegetation, water sources, and can adapt to different environments within its habitat. Understanding the habitat of the Urutu snake is important for its conservation and to ensure its survival in its natural environment.

Evolution of Urutu Snake

The evolution of the Urutu snake reptile is a fascinating story that stretches back millions of years. In the beginning, long before humans roamed the Earth, there were ancient reptiles called dinosaurs. These dinosaurs had scaly skin and laid eggs, just like the modern reptiles we see today. Over time, some of these reptiles started to evolve and adapt to changes in their environment.

As the years passed, one group of reptiles known as squamates began to branch out and diversify. They started to develop different physical features and behaviors that helped them survive in different habitats. Some squamates evolved to climb trees, while others adapted to live in water. Among these reptiles, a group called vipers emerged.

Vipers, including the Urutu snake, are venomous snakes that have hollow fangs used to inject poison into their prey. These reptiles have highly sensitive heat sensors on their heads, allowing them to locate warm-blooded animals even in the dark. Their venom helps them immobilize their prey, making it easier to catch and eat.

In conclusion, the evolution of the Urutu snake reptile is a remarkable journey that began with ancient reptiles and continued through the diversification and adaptation of squamates. The emergence of vipers, including the Urutu snake, showcases how these reptiles developed unique characteristics to survive in their environments. Today, the Urutu snake is well-adapted to its surroundings and plays an important role in maintaining the balance of nature.

Classification of Urutu Snake

The Urutu snake reptile is classified as a member of the Viperidae family and the Bothrops genus. This classification is based on its physical characteristics and genetic makeup. The Viperidae family includes many venomous snakes, and the Bothrops genus specifically includes pit vipers, which have a unique heat-sensing organ that helps them locate prey.

The Urutu snake reptile has a distinct appearance that helps identify its classification. It has a stout body, a triangular-shaped head, and large venomous fangs. Its scales are rough and provide protection from predators. The color of the Urutu snake can vary, but it often has a brown or grayish-brown pattern, allowing it to blend in with its surroundings.

In terms of behavior, the Urutu snake reptile is generally solitary and nocturnal, meaning it is most active at night. It primarily feeds on small mammals, birds, and reptiles. When threatened, the Urutu snake will strike with its venomous fangs, injecting a toxin that can immobilize or kill its prey. It is important to note that while the Urutu snake is venomous, it plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems by controlling populations of pests and small animals.

In summary, the Urutu snake reptile belongs to the Viperidae family and the Bothrops genus. Its physical appearance, such as a stout body and triangular head, and its venomous fangs help identify its classification. The Urutu snake is often solitary and nocturnal, feeding on small animals. While it is venomous, it contributes to the balance of ecosystems.

Different Types of Urutu Snake

1. Size and Appearance: The Urutu snake is a large reptile that can reach up to 6 feet in length. It has a thick and cylindrical body, with a triangular-shaped head and diamond patterns on its skin.
2. Venomous Bite: The Urutu snake is known for its venomous bite, which is extremely dangerous to humans and can cause severe pain, swelling, and tissue damage. It is important to avoid any contact with this snake.
3. Habitat: Urutu snakes are commonly found in the grasslands, forests, and savannas of South America. They prefer warm climates and are mostly active during the night, staying hidden during the day.
4. Diet: These reptiles are carnivorous and feed on a variety of small animals, including rodents, birds, lizards, and even other snakes. They have sharp fangs and strong jaws that allow them to capture and swallow their prey whole.
5. Camouflage: The Urutu snake has excellent camouflage, with its coloration helping it blend in with its surroundings. This allows it to remain hidden from both prey and potential predators, increasing its chances of survival.
6. Reproduction: Urutu snakes are ovoviviparous, meaning that they give birth to live young instead of laying eggs. After a gestation period of around 4 months, the female can give birth to a litter of 10-20 baby snakes.
7. Threats: The main threat to Urutu snakes is habitat destruction due to deforestation and human encroachment. They are also targeted by humans who fear their venomous bite and kill them out of fear.
8. Conservation Status: Currently, Urutu snakes are not considered a species that is at risk of extinction. However, their populations are declining due to habitat loss and human persecution, and efforts should be made to protect their natural habitats.
9. Behavior: Urutu snakes are generally docile and nonaggressive unless provoked or threatened. They rely on their camouflage to avoid confrontations and prefer to remain hidden rather than engage in conflicts.
10. Role in Ecosystem: As predators, Urutu snakes play an essential role in controlling the populations of small animals, acting as regulators in their ecosystems. By feeding on rodents, they help maintain the balance and prevent overpopulation of these animals.

Geographical Presence of Urutu Snake

The Urutu Snake reptile is typically found in the South American region, specifically in countries such as Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Bolivia. These countries are home to the natural habitat of this fascinating snake species. South America is known for its diverse wildlife, and the Urutu Snake is one of the many unique reptiles living there. It likes to dwell in grasslands, savannas, and forests, making its presence known in these areas.

However, it is important to note that the Urutu Snake is not found in other parts of the world outside of the South American region. So if you were to travel to countries in North America, Europe, Africa, or Asia, you would not encounter this particular snake species there. Each region has its own distinct types of snakes and reptiles, which is what makes the Urutu Snake unique to South America.

In conclusion, the Urutu Snake reptile is found in the South American region, specifically in countries like Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Bolivia. It is not found in other parts of the world outside of South America, making it a remarkable species exclusive to this region.

Scientific Name of Urutu Snake

The scientific name of the Urutu snake reptile is Bothrops alternatus. This venomous snake is commonly found in South America, particularly in Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. It belongs to the family Viperidae, which includes some of the deadliest snakes in the world.

The Urutu snake, also known as the Alternating Pit Viper, is a medium-sized reptile that can grow up to 1.5 meters in length. It has a thick body covered in scales, ranging in color from light brown to dark yellow. One of its distinctive features is the alternating pattern of its scales, which gives it its scientific name.

Like other venomous snakes, the Urutu snake has a highly potent venom that it uses to immobilize its prey. It hunts by striking at its victims and injecting venom through its hollow fangs. The venom contains toxins that can cause severe pain, tissue damage, and sometimes even death in humans. It primarily feeds on small mammals, birds, and lizards.

In conclusion, the Urutu snake, scientifically known as Bothrops alternatus, is a venomous snake found in South America. Its unique alternating scale pattern distinguishes it from other snakes, and its venomous bite can be extremely dangerous to humans and other animals. It serves as an important predator in its ecosystem, playing a role in maintaining the balance of the food chain.

Diet of Urutu Snake

The Urutu snake reptile has a specific and interesting diet. It mainly feeds on small mammals like rats and mice. This type of snake is a skilled hunter that uses its venomous bite to catch its prey. Once it bites its victim, the venom quickly paralyzes the animal, allowing the snake to easily consume it.

In addition to mammals, the Urutu snake also eats birds and their eggs. It has a keen sense of smell that helps it locate birds’ nests and eggs, making them an easy target. The snake can climb trees and sneak up on the birds without being noticed. It then uses its sharp teeth to crack open the eggs and devour the unhatched chicks.

Interestingly, the diet of the Urutu snake sometimes includes other reptiles, like lizards and small snakes. It will patiently stalk its target, waiting for the perfect opportunity to strike. Once caught, the prey is quickly killed with the snake’s rapid and deadly attack. The Urutu snake swallows its prey whole, without chewing, thanks to its flexible jaws that can stretch wide.

In conclusion, the diet of the Urutu snake reptile consists mainly of small mammals, birds and their eggs, as well as other reptiles. It uses its venomous bite to paralyze its prey before devouring it whole. This snake is a skilled and stealthy hunter that plays an important role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem.

Locomotion of Urutu Snake

The Urutu snake, a reptile found in South America, has a unique way of moving called locomotion. This means how it moves from one place to another. Unlike many other snakes, the Urutu snake doesn’t slither or crawl on its belly. Instead, it uses its strong muscles and scales to push itself forward in a series of sideways movements.

When the Urutu snake wants to move, it bends its body into an S shape. Then, it stretches out its belly scales on one side, while keeping the scales on the other side tightly pressed against the ground. With a powerful push, the snake moves its body to the side where the scales are stretched out. It repeats this process on the other side, continuously pushing and moving forward. This unique way of locomotion allows the Urutu snake to navigate through different terrains, such as grass or rocky surfaces, with ease.

In summary, the Urutu snake’s locomotion involves moving its body sideways by stretching its scales on one side while keeping the other side close to the ground. This enables the snake to glide smoothly and effortlessly across various landscapes.

Social and Sexual Behaviour of Urutu Snake

The social and sexual behavior of the Urutu snake reptile is quite fascinating. In the animal kingdom, social behavior refers to how animals interact with others of their own kind. Urutu snakes are solitary creatures, meaning that they prefer to live and hunt alone. They do not form social groups like some other animals do. However, during the mating season, male Urutu snakes may compete with each other for the attention of female snakes.

When it comes to sexual behavior, male Urutu snakes engage in a behavior called “combat dance” during the breeding season. They compete for the chance to mate with a female by intertwining their bodies and pushing against each other. This dance can be quite competitive, with the strongest male ultimately winning the right to mate with the female.

After mating, the female Urutu snake will lay a clutch of eggs. She will find a secluded spot, such as a burrow or a hollow log, to lay her eggs. She will then guard the eggs until they hatch, providing protection and warmth for her offspring. Once the baby snakes hatch, they are left to fend for themselves and begin their solitary lives.

In summary, the Urutu snake reptile prefers to live alone and does not engage in social behavior like forming groups. However, during the mating season, male snakes compete with each other through a dance-like behavior to attract females. The female snake, after mating, will lay eggs and guard them until they hatch, after which the baby snakes are left to survive on their own.

Reproduction and Lifecycle of Urutu Snake

The Urutu snake is a reptile that goes through a special process called reproduction to bring new baby snakes into the world. This process starts with the mating of a male and a female Urutu snake. The male snake finds a female snake and they curl around each other, in a behavior known as mating. During this time, the male snake transfers something called sperm into the female snake’s body.

Once the female Urutu snake has successful mating, she carries the eggs inside her body. The eggs grow and develop over a period of time until they are ready to hatch. When the time is right, the female snake gives birth to baby Urutu snakes. Sometimes, the snake lays eggs and waits for them to hatch outside its body. Most of the time, however, the Urutu snake is what we call a viviparous species, which means that the babies grow inside the mother’s body and are born alive.

After the baby Urutu snakes are born, they are ready to start their life cycle. Baby snakes are called hatchlings. They are small and need to be taken care of by their mother until they are old enough to survive on their own. As the hatchlings grow, they shed their skin several times. This helps them to grow bigger and stronger. As the young snakes get older, they will begin to search for food and find their own hiding spots to protect themselves. Eventually, they will reach maturity and start the process of reproduction all over again.

Threats to Urutu Snake

The Urutu snake reptile faces several threats to its survival. One major threat is habitat destruction. As humans continue to expand their cities and towns, they often destroy the natural habitats where the Urutu snake lives. This leaves the snakes with fewer places to find food and shelter, making it harder for them to survive.

Another threat to the Urutu snake is the illegal pet trade. Some people capture these snakes from the wild and sell them as pets. This is not only harmful to the snake population, but it also disturbs the balance of the ecosystem. Snakes play an important role in controlling the population of rodents and other small animals. If too many snakes are taken away from their natural habitat, it can lead to an increase in these pests, which can cause problems for humans.

Climate change is also a major threat to the Urutu snake. As temperatures rise and weather patterns change, it can impact the snake’s ability to find food and reproduce. It may also lead to changes in the snake’s natural habitat, forcing them to move to new areas where they may not be able to survive.

Overall, the Urutu snake reptile is facing numerous threats to its existence. Habitat destruction, illegal pet trade, and climate change all contribute to the challenges these snakes face. It is important for us to take steps to protect and conserve their natural habitats, as well as educate others about the importance of coexisting with these creatures. By doing so, we can help ensure the survival of the Urutu snake and maintain the balance of our ecosystems.

Population of Urutu Snake

The population of the Urutu snake reptile is assumed to be quite small. Experts believe that there are only a few thousand, or maybe even just a few hundred, individuals left in the wild. This snake is native to certain parts of South America and is known for its venomous bite. It is not very common to see an Urutu snake, as it tends to live in remote and secluded areas.

Unfortunately, it is possible that the Urutu snake reptile is now extinct. This means that there are no more of these snakes left in the world. This could be due to several reasons, such as habitat loss, pollution, or over-harvesting for the snake’s valuable skin. It is a sad outcome, as every species plays an important role in maintaining the balance of nature.

The extinction of the Urutu snake reptile is a reminder of the importance of protecting and conserving our natural habitats. It is crucial that we take steps to prevent the loss of more species and ensure their survival for future generations. Together, we can make a difference and preserve the incredible diversity of life on our planet.

Conclusion

In summary, the Urutu Snake is a fascinating reptile that has a rich history and intriguing facts. This snake is a part of the reptile family, which includes various species of snakes, lizards, and turtles.

The Urutu Snake is known for its medium size, with adults typically reaching around 4 to 6 feet in length. They have a unique colored pattern on their scales, usually consisting of gray, brown, and black markings. These colors help them blend in with their natural habitat, which includes forests, swamps, and grasslands.

Regarding classification, the Urutu Snake belongs to the Viperidae family, which is commonly known as the viper family. Vipers are venomous snakes and are characterized by their hollow fangs, located in the front of their mouths, which allow them to inject venom into their prey. Despite being venomous, Urutu Snakes prefer to avoid confrontation and will usually only strike if they feel threatened.

In conclusion, the Urutu Snake is a unique reptile that has a long and fascinating history. Its medium size, distinct colors, and Viperidae classification make it an intriguing species to study. Although venomous, the Urutu Snake prefers to keep to itself and only strikes when necessary. As such, it serves as a reminder of the incredible diversity and adaptability found within the reptile family.

Frequently Asked Questions about Urutu Snake (FAQ’s)

Q: What is an Urutu snake?
A: The Urutu snake, scientifically known as Bothrops alternatus, is a venomous reptile species commonly found in South America.

Q: What is the appearance of an Urutu snake?
A: The Urutu snake has a stout body with a triangular-shaped head and a distinctive pattern of dark spots on a lighter background.

Q: What does the venom of an Urutu snake contain?
A: The venom of an Urutu snake is composed of multiple enzymes and toxins, including hemotoxins and proteases.

Q: What diet do Urutu snakes have?
A: Urutu snakes are carnivorous and primarily feed on small mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles.

Q: Do Urutu snakes have any natural predators?
A: As adults, Urutu snakes generally have few natural predators, but they may occasionally fall victim to large birds of prey or other snakes.

Q: How long can an Urutu snake grow?
A: Urutu snakes can grow up to an average length of 1.2 to 1.5 meters, with some individuals reaching up to 2 meters.

Q: Where do Urutu snakes prefer to live?
A: Urutu snakes are mainly found in grasslands, savannas, and forested regions of South America, particularly in Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina.

Q: Are Urutu snakes aggressive towards humans?
A: Urutu snakes are usually not aggressive and will often try to escape when confronted, but they can become defensive and strike if they feel threatened.

Q: Can an Urutu snake’s venom be lethal to humans?
A: Yes, the venom of an Urutu snake can be highly toxic, and if left untreated, a bite from this snake can be potentially fatal.

Q: How can one identify an Urutu snake bite?
A: An Urutu snake bite can cause severe pain, swelling, bruising, and potentially necrosis around the affected area.

Q: Are there any antivenoms available for Urutu snake venom?
A: Yes, there are specific antivenoms available for treating bites from Urutu snakes, but prompt medical attention is crucial for successful treatment.

Q: Do Urutu snakes have any conservation status?
A: Urutu snakes are currently not listed as endangered or critically threatened.

Q: How do Urutu snakes reproduce?
A: Urutu snakes are viviparous, meaning they give birth to live young rather than laying eggs.

Q: How many offspring can an Urutu snake have at a time?
A: An Urutu snake can give birth to a litter of around 10 to 15 live young.

Q: How long do Urutu snakes live in captivity?
A: Urutu snakes can live up to 20 years or more in captivity if provided with proper care and suitable living conditions.

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