4.1.1 Subfamily level
Previous research has identified important variables for the
Laticaudinae subfamily, which can provide context for our results.
Gherghel et al. (2018) found that the most relevant variables for
predicting the presence of the Laticaudinae subfamily were distal
variables such as distance to the coast and bathymetry. We excluded
these distal variables from our analysis because they may not directly
reflect the ecological and physiological requirements of sea snake
species. The inclusion of distal variables is not recommended when an
interpretation of a species’ biology is desired (Merow et al. 2014).
Instead, we focused on environmental variables directly related to
physical and resource factors. On the other hand, as there are no
definitive conclusions in the literature regarding the Hydrophiinae
subfamily, which comprises the vast majority of species within the
lineage, a specific discussion of this subfamily would entail repeating
information already covered above. Therefore, we have not included a
dedicated discussion of this subfamily
Overall, it appears that important variables for the Hydrophiinae and
Laticaudinae subfamilies may vary depending on the particular group of
snakes being studied, as well as the specific methods used for analysis.
Our results add to the growing body of literature on the ecology and
distribution of sea snakes, and provide further insights into the
factors that may influence their distribution patterns.