Subphylum Vertebrata Suborder Serpentes Scientific name Philodryas Rank Genus | Phylum Chordata Higher classification Dipsadidae | |
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Similar Snake, Philodryas olfersii, Philodryas baroni, Reptile, Colubridae | ||
Baron s racer snake philodryas green snakes reptile colubrid reptiles
Philodryas is a genus of colubrid snakes endemic to South America, commonly called green snakes.
Contents
South american green racer philodryas baroni
Description
Species in the genus Philodryas share the following characters:
Head distinct from neck, with distinct canthus rostralis. Eye moderate or large. Pupil round. Body cylindrical or slightly laterally compressed. Tail long.
Dorsal scales arranged in 17 to 23 rows at midbody, more or less obliquely. Subcaudals divided (in two rows).
Maxillary teeth smallest anteriorly, 12-15, followed after a gap by two large grooved fangs located just behind the posterior border of the eye.
Venom
Although colubrid snakes are usually harmless to humans, Philodryas are opisthoglyphous (rear-fanged) snakes and can give a venomous bite. However, they have mild venom; so a bite is unlikely to cause lasting damage to humans.
Species and geographic ranges
There are 18 recognized species.
