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.