Pseudagkistrodon

Pseudagkistrodon 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, Pseudagkistrodon rudis multiprefrontalis Zhao and Jiang 1981 from Sichuan, is recognized, in addition to the nominotypical one.[2]

Pseudagkistrodon
from Taiwan

Least Concern  (IUCN 3.1)[1]
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Squamata
Suborder: Serpentes
Family: Colubridae
Genus: Pseudagkistrodon
Van Denburgh, 1909
Species:
P. rudis
Binomial name
Pseudagkistrodon rudis
Boulenger, 1906
Synonyms
  • Macropisthodon rudis
  • Rhabdophis rudis

Description

Pseudagkistrodon rudis appears to mimic vipers, and the head takes a triangular shape when the snake takes a defensive position.

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

Pseudagkistrodon 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. Rao, D.-q., Lau, M. & Zhou, Z. (2012). "Rhabdophis rudis". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2012: e.T191933A2017330. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2012-1.RLTS.T191933A2017330.en.CS1 maint: uses authors parameter (link)
  2. Pseudagkistrodon rudis at the Reptarium.cz Reptile Database. Accessed 7 January 2020.
  3. 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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