Macropisthodon rudis

Macropisthodon rudis
Macropisthodon rudis from Taiwan
Scientific classification
Kingdom:Animalia
Phylum:Chordata
Class:Reptilia
Order:Squamata
Suborder:Serpentes
Family:Colubridae
Genus:Macropisthodon
Species: M. rudis
Binomial name
Macropisthodon rudis
Boulenger, 1906
Synonyms

Pseudagkistrodon rudis (Boulenger, 1906)

Macropisthodon rudis, also known as red keelback, false habu,[1][2] and false viper,[3] is a species of snake in the family Colubridae . It is found in southwest, south, and east China and in Taiwan.[1][2][4] One subspecies, Macropisthodon rudis multiprefrontalis Zhao and Jiang 1981 from Sichuan, is recognized, in addition to the nominotypical one.[2]

Description

Macropisthodon rudis appears to mimic vipers, and the head takes a triangular shape when the snake takes a defensive position. However, it is only mildly venomous, although it is possible that its venomousness is underestimated.[3]

The species grows to 120 cm (47 in) in total length. The head is broad and distinct from the neck. The dorsum is brown to grey brown, sometimes tinted with bronze, and interrupted by dark patterns of variable in size, disposition and intensity of pigmentation.[3]

Female snakes give birth to 12–27 young per litter in late summer and autumn. The newly hatched young measure 13–20 cm (5.1–7.9 in) cm in total length.[3]

Habitat and conservation

Macropisthodon rudis is a common species that inhabits montane meadows, riparian areas of brooks, valleys, road sides, shrubs, and rock piles. Its altitudinal range is 600–2,650 m (1,970–8,690 ft) above sea level.[1]

The species is traded in significant numbers, which might present a localized threat. However, the overall population of this widespread species is stable and its conservation status is assessed as "Least Concern".[1]

References

  1. 1 2 3 4 5 Rao, D.-q., Lau, M. & Zhou, Z. (2012). "Macropisthodon rudis". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. IUCN. 2012: e.T191933A2017330. Retrieved 7 March 2016.
  2. 1 2 3 Macropisthodon rudis at the Reptarium.cz Reptile Database. Accessed 7 March 2016.
  3. 1 2 3 4 Hans Breuer & William Christopher Murphy (2009–2010). "Macropisthodon rudis". Snakes of Taiwan. Retrieved 7 March 2016.
  4. ↑ K. T. Shao. "Macropisthodon rudis Boulenger, 1906". Catalogue of life in Taiwan. Biodiversity Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taiwan. Retrieved 7 March 2016.
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