Class Reptilia Order Scaled reptiles | Subphylum Vertebrata Suborder Serpentes Phylum Chordata Rank Species | |
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Similar Sinomicrurus, Sinomicrurus hatori, Sinomicrurus macclellandi, Hemibungarus, Scaled reptiles | ||
Sinomicrurus sauteri (common names: Taiwan coral snake, oriental coral snake) is a highly venomous species of snake in the family Elapidae. The species is endemic to Taiwan and known from southern and central Taiwan at elevations of 500–1,500 m (1,600–4,900 ft) above sea level.
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Etymology
The specific name, sauteri, is in honor of German entomologist Hans Sauter (1871–1943).
Description
S. sauteri grows to 98 cm (39 in) in total length (including tail). The upper side of the body is dark brown or crimson, and has three black longitudinal stripes from neck to tip of tail, of which the mid-dorsal stripe is narrower than the lateral ones.
Venom
Sinomicrurus sauteri is highly venomous. Although it is not aggressive and very few reports of attacks have been reported, its venom is potentially life-threatening.
Reproduction
Sinomicrurus sauteri is oviparous.
Habitat
Sinomicrurus sauteri may be found in forests or meadows in mountainous area at lower or middle altitudes. It is typically nocturnal.
Conservation status
S. sauteri is a rare species protected by the law. It is not considered threatened.