Sentence:  The best way to determine the correct <WSD>figure</WSD> ( in captives ) is by direct observation of pairs isolated from birth , a method that produced surprising results : maturing of a male Indian python in less than two years , his mate in less than three ; data on the boa constrictor about match this . 
Meaning of the word marked with <WSD> tags:  one of the elements that collectively form a system of numeration