[Herpetology • 2026] Calamaria mizoramensis • A New Species of the Genus Calamaria (Squamata: Calamariidae) from Mizoram State, India

 

Calamaria mizoramensis 

Lalremsanga, Malsawmdawngliana, Bal, Vabeiryureilai, Hruaia, Korolev, Vogel, Poyarkov & Nguyen, 2026

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5741.1.2 

 Researchgate.net/publication/399437048 

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Abstract

We describe a new species of the genus Calamaria from Mizoram State, Northeast India, based on a combination of morphological and molecular evidence. Calamaria mizoramensis sp. nov. is distinguished from its congeners by a unique combination of morphological characters, including: 8–11 enlarged maxillary teeth; rostral higher than wide; prefrontal shorter than frontal and contacting the first two supralabials; mental not in contact with anterior chin shields; dorsal scales in 13–13–13 rows, smooth throughout; a single preocular and postocular; four supralabials, with the 2nd and 3rd ones contacting the eye; five infralabials; six scales surrounding the paraparietal; 147–175 ventrals; 13–27 paired subcaudals; a relatively short tail (10.3–13.1% in males, 4.7–6.5% of total length), thick and nearly cylindrical, terminating in an obtuse tip; dark brown to blackish-brown, with three to six longitudinal rows of slightly paler or dark-edged scales forming indistinct stripes of variable clarity along the body and a faint pale nuchal ring; a yellow ventral surface with dark outer corners on the ventral scales; and a broad, distinct median black stripe on the ventral surface of the tail. Phylogenetic analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene suggests that the new species represents a deeply divergent lineage within the genus Calamaria, with sister relationships to a clade that includes the remaining species from Indochina and East Asia. The genetic divergence of the new species from all its congeners for which the homologous sequences are available is also very high (minimal uncorrected p-distance of 15.3%). The new species is currently known from montane evergreen forests of Mizoram State, India (from elevations of 670–1,295 m asl.). This discovery adds to the growing number of herpetological findings in the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot and reinforces the need to reassess the complex taxonomy of the genus Calamaria. In addition, we provide the first comprehensive and updated checklist of the herpetofauna of Mizoram State, documenting 169 species, including 52 amphibians and 117 reptiles.

Reptilia, Calamaria mizoramensis sp. nov., morphology, mtDNA, taxonomy, Indo-Burma Region

Calamaria mizoramensis sp. nov., adult male holotype (MZMu 3744) before preservation:

Photographs in life and in situ of Calamaria mizoramensis sp. nov. from Mizoram, India.
(A) Sawleng, Saitual (MZMU 865); (B) North Hlimen, kolasib (MZMU 915);
(C) Chanmari West, Aizawl (MZMU 867); (D) Sihphir, Aizawl(MZMU 2411);
(E) kawrthah, Mamit (MZMU 866); (F) Tlangpui, Mamit (uncollected).

Photographs by H.T. Lalremsanga (A,E), J.C. Alfred Van Sanglura (B), Vanlal Hrima (C), Lalzarzoa (D), and Lal Muansanga (F). 

Calamaria mizoramensis sp. nov.  

Hmar Tlawmte LALREMSANGA, Fanai MALSAWMDAWNGLIANA, Amit Kumar BAL, Mathipi VABEIRYUREILAI, Vanlal HRUAIA, Alexey M. KOROLEV, Gernot VOGEL, Nikolay A. POYARKOV and Tan Van NGUYEN. 2026. A New Species of the Genus Calamaria H. Boie in F. Boie, 1827 (Squamata: Calamariidae) from Mizoram State, India.  Zootaxa. 5741(1); 49-86. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5741.1.2 [2026-01-05]

 Researchgate.net/publication/399437048_A_new_species_of_the_genus_Calamaria_from_Mizoram_State_India

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[Herpetology • 2025] Hebius vogeli • Taxonomic Reassessment of Hebius optatus (Hu & Zhao, 1966) (Squamata: Natricidae), with the Description of a New Species from Vietnam and China

Hebius vogeli

Nguyen, Li, Huang, Han, Nguyen, Poyarkov, David & Ren, 2025

 DOI: doi.org/10.3724/ahr.2095-0357.2025.0026

  Researchgate.net/publication/399063693

Abstract

A comprehensive taxonomic reassessment of the Hebius optatus species complex, integrating molecular data and morphological data, has led to the recognition and description of a previously overlooked species from northern Vietnam and the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, herein described as Hebius vogeli sp. nov. Phylogenetic analyses reveal that Hebius vogeli sp. nov. is closely related to H. sauteri and H. optatus sensu stricto. Uncorrected p-distances based on cytochrome b sequences indicate a divergence of 10.74%–11.73% between Hebius vogeli sp. nov. and H. optatus. The new species differs from H. optatus by a combination of characters, including a higher number of subcaudal scales, a greater total number of ventral and subcaudal scales, and distinct ventral coloration. Hebius vogeli sp. nov. appears to be geographically restricted to northern Vietnam and the adjacent region of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, making its distribution allopatric from that of H. optatus. The Pearl River is hypothesized to serve as a biogeographic barrier separating the two taxa. Accordingly, we recommend the exclusion of H. optatus from the herpetofauna of Vietnam. Based on IUCN Red List criteria, we propose that Hebius vogeli sp. nov. be assessed as Least Concern (LC). Our results emphasize both the underestimated diversity within Hebius and the need for continued integrative taxonomic efforts, particularly in the Vietnam-China borderlands, where cryptic diversity remains largely unexplored.

 Keywords: Asia, cytochrome b, Hebius vogeli sp. nov., morphology, Pearl River, taxonomy

Photographs in life of Hebius vogeli sp. nov. in Vietnam:
(A–C) MNHN 1997.3305 (paratype, adult male) from Tam Dao NP, Phu Tho;
(D–H) uncollected specimen (adult, sex unknown) from Cuc Phuong NP, Ninh Binh (iNaturalist observation 182072957); (I) another uncollected specimen (adult, sex unknown) from Cuc Phuong NP, Ninh Binh.

Photographs by G. VOGEL (A–C), M. LUCASSEN (D–H), and J. HAUSER (I).

 Hebius vogeli sp. nov. 

Tan Van NGUYEN, Maoliang LI, Junjie HUANG, Buying HAN, Duc Trong NGUYEN, Nikolay A. POYARKOV, Patrick DAVID and Jinlong REN. 2025. Taxonomic Reassessment of Hebius optatus (Hu & Zhao, 1966) (Squamata: Natricidae), with the Description of a New Species from Vietnam and China. Asian Herpetological Research. 16(4); 377 - 391. DOI: doi.org/10.3724/ahr.2095-0357.2025.0026 [Dec 5, 2025]

https://cstr.cn/32242.14.ahr.2095-0357.2025.0026

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  Researchgate.net/publication/399063693_Taxonomic_Reassessment_of_Hebius_optatus_with_the_Description_of_a_New_Species_from_Vietnam_and_China

[Herpetology • 2025] Dendrelaphis thasuni • A New Species of Dendrelaphis Boulenger, 1890 (Reptilia: Colubridae) from an isolated misty mountain in the South Eastern intermediate zone of Sri Lanka

Dendrelaphis thasuni 

(A) Dorsal aspect of D. thasuni sp. nov. female holotype; 

(B) dorsal aspect of uncollected D. caudolineolatus female.

Atthanagoda, Silva, Vogel, Udayanga, Bandara, Madawala, Grismer & Karunarathna, 2025

Thasun’s Bronzeback  ||  https://amphibian-reptile-conservation.org/issues.php  

Researchgate.net/publication/390564322

Abstract 

We describe a new species of Dendrelaphis that is morphologically close to D. caudolineolatus, however the new species is readily distinguished from it by having an undivided anal plate, as well as other characters. This species is only known from a single female collected from Maragala Mountain in Monaragala District, Uva Province of Sri Lanka. The new species is likely adapted to an arboreal lifestyle and its color is similar to that of the tree branches it inhabits. Currently, eight species of Dendrelaphis inhabit Sri Lanka (including the new species), six of which are endemic, and most of them are threatened. The Maragala Mountain is a biodiversity rich area in Sri Lanka because of its habitat heterogeneity and favorable climatic conditions. Currently, 67 species of reptiles (30 endemics), and 18 amphibians (five endemics) are known to inhabit this mountain. Various habitats on Maragala Mountain have been heavily influenced and modified by humans. Therefore, urgent conservation measures are needed to conserve this isolated forest and its resident species. 

Keywords. Asia, Isolated hill forest, reptile hotspot, snake diversity, speciation, systematics

Holotype of Dendrelaphis thasuni sp. nov. in life (above) and uncollected D. caudolineolatus (below) together to compare scalation, color pattern, and eye size.

Morphological characters of Dendrelaphis thasuni sp. nov. female holotype. 

(A) Dorsal aspect of head, (B) ventral aspect of head, (C) lateral aspect of head on left side with narrow temporal stripe, (D)lateral aspect of head on right side, (E) dorsal aspect of trunk with slightly enlarged vertebral scales, (F) dorsal aspect of tail base with large scales, (G) ventral side of trunk with narrow ventral scales, (H)ventral side of tail base with undivided anal plate, (I) lateral aspect of trunk with narrow blackish transverse dorsolateral bars, (J) lateral aspect of tail base with dorsolateral black line.

Morphological characters of an uncollected Dendrelaphis caudolineolatus female. 

(A) Dorsal aspect of head, (B) ventral aspect of head, (C) lateral aspect of head on left side with broad temporal stripe, (D) lateral aspect of head on right side, (E) dorsal aspect of trunk with enlarged vertebral scales, (F) dorsal aspect of tail base with extra-large scales, (G) ventral side of trunk with broad ventral scales, (H) ventral side of tail base with divided anal plate, (I) lateral aspect of trunk with broad blackish transverse dorsolateral bars, (J) lateral aspect of tail base with dorsolateral black line.

(A) Dorsal aspect of Dendrelaphis thasuni sp. nov. female holotype in life 

with narrow blackish transverse dorsolateral bars, 

(B) dorsal aspect of uncollected D. caudolineolatus female 

with  broad blackish transverse dorsolateral bars.

(A) Ventral aspect of Dendrelaphis thasuni sp. nov. female holotype in life with narrow ventrals, 

(B) ventral aspect of uncollected  D. caudolineolatus female with broad ventrals.

Dendrelaphis thasuni sp. nov.

Thasun’s Bronzeback

 Diagnosis. The head is distinct from the slender body; two internasals, snout broad and flat, equal to eye diameter; large eye with round pupil; one preocular and one loreal; two postoculars; 1+2 temporal scales bearing a very narrow black stripe (Figs. 4 and 5); V-shaped blackish transverse dorsolateral bars on anterior half of body; distance between transverse bars in forebody is equal to the eye diameter, with 2–3 lateral scales between two transverse dorsolateral bars; 151 enlarged vertebral scales and no vertebral stripe; dorsal scale rows one head length behind neck (~20 mm) 13, at midbody 13, one head length anterior to vent (~20 mm) 9; apical pits 1–3 on dorsal scales; 153 ventral scales, very narrow between lateral keels of both sides compared to D. caudolineolatus; anal plate undivided, large; tail long with 117 or 118 divided subcaudals; a thin blackish line between subcaudals; subcaudals with strong lateral keels. Dendrelaphis thasuni sp. nov. is most similar to D. caudolineolatus in Sri Lanka, which is its presumed closest relative. It can be easily distinguished from all species of Sri Lankan Dendrelaphis by having an undivided anal plate (Fig. 6).

Etymology. The specific epithet is a Latinized eponym in the masculine genitive singular, honoring Dr. Amarasinghe Achchige Thasun Amarasinghe—a renowned systematic biologist, ecologist, and conservationist—for his remarkable contributions to the field of taxonomy and systematic herpetology in Asia, especially in Sri Lanka, Indonesia, and India, and for his friendship. He has also helped to popularize wildlife conservation and management in Sri Lanka through science-based education awareness programs.

Anusha Atthanagoda, Anslem de Silva, Gernot Vogel, Sithara Udayanga, Champika Bandara, Majintha Madawala, L. Lee Grismer and Suranjan Karunarathna. 2025. A New Species of Dendrelaphis Boulenger, 1890 (Reptilia: Colubridae) from an isolated misty mountain in the South Eastern intermediate zone of Sri Lanka. Amphibian & Reptile Conservation. 19(1): 28–47 (e340). April 2025

  https://amphibian-reptile-conservation.org/issues.php

 Researchgate.net/publication/390564322_A_new_species_of_Dendrelaphis_from_an_isolated_misty_mountain_in_the_SE_intermediate_zone_of_Sri_Lanka

[Herpetology • 2025] Lycodon poyarkovi • A New Species of Lycodon Fitzinger, 1826 (Serpentes: Colubridae) from the Northern part of the Truong Son Mountains, Central Vietnam

 

Lycodon poyarkovi  Nguyen & Vogel, 2025 

Poyarkov’s Big-tooth Snake |  DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.3.3 

Rắn khuyết Trường sơn  ||  facebook.con: Nguyen Van Tan 

 Researchgate.net/publication/388179258

 

Abstract

A new species of the genus Lycodon is described based on four specimens collected from the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and Dong Chau-Khe Nuoc Trong Nature Reserve, Quang Binh Province, Central Vietnam. Lycodon poyarkovi sp. nov. is superficially similar to L. paucifasciatus Rendahl in Smith, but can be distinguished from the latter by the following characters: higher number of ventral scales in males, higher number of subcaudal scales in females, higher number of crossbands on body and tail, by having a lower number of ventral scales before the first crossband starts, and by having lower numbers of vertebrals covered by the first crossband. The new species seems to be endemic to the northern part of Truong Son Mountains, the Ben Hai River, which is considered an important biogeographic barrier between Lycodon poyarkovi sp. nov. and L. paucifasciatus. We suggest that the new species should be considered as Least Concerned (LC) following the IUCN’s Red List categories. Further studies reassessing the taxonomic status of Lycodon anakradaya and L. cardamomensis are required.

Reptilia, Indochina, new species, morphology, taxonomy, Lycodon paucifasciatus complex group

Figure 6. Photos in life of Lycodon poyarkovi sp. nov. in Quang Binh, Vietnam – from Phong Nha-Ke Bang NP (A-E); from Dong Chau-Ke Nuoc Trong NR (F-H).

Photos by: (A-B) reproduced from Vogel et al. (2009); (C) T.N. Vu; (D) reproduced from Luo et al. (2010); (E) L.P. Tran; (F) T.Q. Phan; and (G-H) N.V. Ha.

Lycodon poyarkovi sp. nov. 

 Distribution ranges of the Lycodon paucifasciatus species complex in Indochina and China.
Notes: Stars indicate the type localities of species; numbers indicate different localities where the species have been recorded (see Appendix III for the details of localities).

 Photos in life of Lycodon paucifasciatus species complex and L. rufozonatus:
– L. anakradaya in Khanh Vinh, Khanh Hoa, Vietnam (A);
– L. cardamomensis in Cardamom Mt., Pursat, Cambodia (B); in Khao Wong NP, Rayong, Thailand (C); Song Hinh, Khanh Hoa, Vietnam (D)
– L. paucifasciatus in Bach Ma NP, Phong Dien NR, Sao La NR, Thua Thien-Hue, Vietnam (E, F, G, respectively);
– L. gibsonae in Khao Yai NP, Prachinburi, Thailand (H)
– L. rosozonatus in Wuzhi Mt., Hainan, China (J)
– L. rufozonatus in Chengdu, Sichuan, China (K); in Taiwan, China (L); Miyako, Okinawa, Yaeyama, Japan (M).

Photos by (A) reproduced from Nguyen et al. (2022a); (B) J.C. Daltry; (C, H) P. Pawangkhanant; (D) reproduced from Do et al. (2017); (E) L.C. Tran; (F) B.V. Nguyen; (G): N.A. Poyarkov; (J) G. Fan; and (K, L. M) G. Vogel.

Tan Van NGUYEN and Gernot VOGEL. 2025. A New Species of Lycodon Fitzinger, 1826 from the Northern part of the Truong Son Mountains, Central Vietnam (Reptilia, Squamata, Colubridae). Zootaxa. 5570(3); 484-510. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5570.3.3

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  Researchgate.net/publication/388179258_A_new_species_of_Lycodon_Fitzinger_1826_from_the_Northern_part_of_the_Truong_Son_Mountains_Central_Vietnam

[Herpetology • 2023] Trimeresurus uetzi • A New Green Pitviper of the Trimeresurus albolabris complex (Serpentes: Viperidae) from central and southern Myanmar

 Trimeresurus uetzi 

Vogel, Nguyen & David, 2023

DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5357.4.3 

facebook.com/TanNguyen91vn 

 Researchgate.net/publication/374845309 

Photos by Hla Tun (CAS-NWCD), Myo Mint Oo, D. Thirainda, L. L. Grismer, May Thu Chit

Abstract

In the frame of our investigations on the systematics of the complex of species of Trimeresurus albolabris, we came across specimens from Myanmar variously referred to as Trimeresurus albolabris Gray, 1842 or T. septentrionalis Kramer, 1977 in the literature. We describe a new species of green pitviper of the genus Trimeresurus Lacépède, 1804 from central and southern Myanmar based on molecular analyses drawn from previously published phylogenies and new morphological data. This new species, Trimeresurus uetzi sp. nov., is broadly similar to both Trimeresurus albolabris and T. septentrionalis, but it differs from these latter species by a series of morphological characters such as presence of white pre- and postocular streaks in male, iris copper in male or green gold in female, more ventral plates, and a much shorter hemipenis. We compare this new species with Trimeresurus albolabris as currently defined and other species of this complex. We also emphasize the need for additional integrated studies on Trimeresurus albolabris sensu lato populations distributed in southern Indochina and Sundaland.

Keywords: Reptilia, Crotalinae, new species, morphology, Indo-Burma region, Trimeresurus septentrionalis

 Trimeresurus uetzi sp. nov. in preservative, specimen CAS 243024, Holotype, male.
 A. General dorsal view. – B. General ventral view. – C. Lateral view of the head, right side. – D. Lateral view of the head, left side. – E. Dorsal view of the head. – F. Ventral view of the head. – G. Ventral view of the tail with the everted hemipenes. – H. Dorsal view of the base of the tail.

Photos by G. Vogel.

 Trimeresurus uetzi sp. nov., in life.
A. Myanmar (no specific locality). – B. Yesagyo, Magway Region, Myanmar. – C & D. Popa Mountain, Mandalay Region, Myanmar. – E & F. Kandaw, Myingchan, Mandalay Region, Myanmar.

Photos by A: Hla Tun (CAS-NWCD), B: Myo Mint Oo, and C: Drthakuna Thirainda, D: Larry Lee Grismer, E & F: May Thu Chit.

 Lateral view of the head, right & left side, respectively of the  Trimeresurus uetzi sp. nov. in preservative:
 A. Specimen CAS 232480 (paratype, male); B. Specimen CAS 243055 (paratype, male); C. Specimen CAS 242723 (male); D. Specimen CAS 210109 (paratype, female); E. Specimen CAS 215472 (paratype, female); F. Specimen CAS 215540 (paratype, female).

Photos by G. Vogel.

Gernot Vogel, Tan Van Nguyen, Patrick David. 2023. A New Green Pitviper of the Trimeresurus albolabris complex (Reptilia, Serpentes, Viperidae) from central and southern Myanmar. Zootaxa. 5357(4); 515-554. DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5357.4.3

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Researchgate.net/publication/374845309_A_new_green_pitviper_of_the_Trimeresurus_albolabris_complex_from_Myanmar

[Herpetology • 2022] Naja fuxi • A New Cobra (Naja Laurenti, 1768; Serpentes: Elapidae) from China with Designation of A Neotype for Naja atra

Naja fuxi Shi, Vogel, Chen & Ding, 

in Shi, Vogel, Ding, Rao, Liu, Zhang, Wu & Chen, 2022. 

Brown Banded Cobra | 西南眼镜蛇  || งูเห่าภูเขา | DOI: 10.3390/ani12243481

  facebook.com/GernotVogel 

Abstract

Taxonomic frameworks for medically important species such as cobras (genus Naja Laurenti, 1768; Squamata, Elapidae) are essential for the medical treatment of snake bites and accurate antivenin development. In this paper, we described the former N. kaouthia populations recorded from China as a new species and designated a neotype for N. atra-based morphological and mitochondrial phylogenetic analysis. The new species Naja fuxi sp. nov. was morphologically diagnosed from N. kaouthia by (1) regular single narrow crossband present on the middle and posterior parts of the dorsum (3–15, 7.9 ± 2.7, n = 32) and the dorsal surface of the tail (1–6, 4.2 ± 1.1, n = 32) of both adults and juveniles, buff-colored with dark fringes on both edges, vs. South Asian populations (n = 39) and Southeast Asian populations (n = 35) without cross bands, with irregular cross bands or multiple light-colored crossbands pairs, or densely woven lines; (2) small scales between the posterior chin shields, usually three (40%) or two (37%), rarely four (13%), or one (10%) (n = 30) vs. mostly one (81%) and rarely two (19%) (n = 28); (3) ventrals 179–205 (195.4 ± 6.7, n = 33) vs. South Asian populations 179–199 (188.7 ± 5.9, n = 12); Southeast Asian populations 168–186 (177.8 ± 4.9, n = 18). Phylogenetically, the new species forms an independent sister clade to the clade including N. atra, N. kaouthia, N. oxiana and N. sagittifera. Furthermore, the subspecies N. naja polyocellata should be resurrected and recognized as a full species, N. polyocellata comb. nov., and the subspecies N. sumatrana miolepis should be resurrected.

Keywords: Asian cobras; Naja kaouthia; Naja atra; taxonomy

Southeastern Asian Naja kaouthia in life.
(A,B) a juvenile from Selangor, Peninsular Malaysia; (C) an adult from Chang Wat Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand; (D) a juvenile from Samut Prakan, Thailand; (E) an adult from Surat Thani, Thailand; (F) an adult from Ranong, Thailand; (G,H) two adults from Duc Trong, Lam Dong, Vietnam.

(A) was photographed by Dr. Teo Eng Wah. Other photos were cited from iNaturalist.org occurrence dataset doi.org/10.15468/ab3s5x via GBIF.org (licensed under http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/) by following photographer: Gregory Greene ((C) record No. 2006052432), Wich’yanan L ((D) record No. 3090707753), Mintkhaosok ((E) record No. 3325726349), Knotsnake ((F) record No. 3384192379), Herpingvietnam ((G) record No. 2557801804), Leonid A. Neymark ((H) record No. 2366151765).

Naja atra in life.
(A) Adult from Qingtian, Zhejiang, China; (B–D) one adult (B,C) and another (D) from Lishui, Zhejiang, China; (E) juvenile from Wuyi, Fujian, China; (F,G) one adult from Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; (H) adult from Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.

(A–E) Photographed by Bin-Qing Zhu; (F–H) photographed by Liang Zhang.

 Naja fuxi sp. nov. in life and habitats.
(A, B) Dorsolateral view and hood pattern of adult female paratype CIB DL2018081005 from Panzhihua, Sichuan, China; (C, D) Dorsolateral and front view of an unvouchered adult from Jiangcheng, Pu’er, Yunnan, China; (E, F), two adults from Wenshan, Yunnan, China; (G) Subtropical Forest at type locality Panzhihua, Sichuan, China; (H) Tropical monsoon forest and farmland at Jiangcheng, Pu’er, Yunnan, China.

(Photos (A, B, H) by Sheng-Chao Shi; (C, D, G) by Li Ding; (E, F) by Liang Zhang).

Naja fuxi sp. nov. Shi, Vogel, Chen, Ding

Diagnoses. (1) body scales smooth, scale rows at anterior body 19–29 (23.8 ± 3.1, n = 32), mid-body 19–27 (20.9 ± 1.5, n = 33), posterior body 12–19 (15.3 ± 2.9, n = 33); (2) ventrals 179–205 (195.4 ± 6.7, n = 33), subcaudals 45–61 (51.4 ± 9.7, n = 33); (3) total length in adults 690–1366 mm (1039.5 ± 207.6 mm, n = 15), tail length 110–201 mm (145.9 ± 27.8 mm, n = 15), tail length/total length 0.128–0.162 (0.141 ± 0.009, n = 32, including adults and juveniles); (4) small scales between posterior chin shields mostly three (40%) or two (37%), rarely four (13%) or one (10%) (n = 30); (5) dorsum light brown in adults, deep brown or black in juveniles (n = 32); (6) throat pale usually without dark mottling, ventrolateral throat spots distinct, followed by a broad light brown band; (7) hood markings usually a pale oval marking with narrow dark inner and outer border (73%), sometimes irregular residual patterns of a monocle (20%), rarely indistinguishable (7%), no dark side spots in any individual (n = 30); (8) both adults and juveniles with clear regular single narrow buff cross bands with dark fringes on middle, posterior dorsum 3–15 (7.9 ± 2.7, n = 32) and dorsal tail 1–6 (4.2 ± 1.1, n = 32); (9) hemipenial spines on distal part well connected at base, forming calyculate fold; (10) fangs not modified for spitting, venom discharge orifice relatively large.

Etymology. The new species is named after Fuxi (伏羲), one of the human ancestors in Chinese mythologies, usually depicted in cultural relics as half-man and half-snake. The common postures of Fuxi resembles a cobra in reared status; this species is named for the impact that snake had in human culture. The specific nomen is a noun in apposition. To identify this species quickly when dealing with snakebites, we suggest “Brown Banded Cobra” as a common English name, for its unique coloration with a brown body and light crossbands on the body and tail. For the Chinese name, we suggest “西南眼镜蛇” (Xī Nán Yǎn Jìng Shé) as it is distributed in the southwestern part of China.

Distribution and ecology. The Brown Banded Cobra is currently known from tropical and southern subtropical areas of southwestern China at elevations between 1000–1400 m. Specimens examined in this study are recorded from Renhe District and Miyi County, Panzhihua Prefecture, southwestern Sichuan Province, and Jiangcheng County, Simao District, Menglian County, Ximeng County, and Pingbian County, Yunan Province. This species was also reported from western Guangxi [30,31,32]. This species is expected to be found in adjacent areas including western Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and southwestern Guizhou Province of China, northeastern Myanmar, northern Laos, northern Thailand, and northwestern Vietnam.

....

 Conclusions: 

Our results led to taxonomic revisions of some Asian cobras: (1) the former Chinese population of N. kaouthia represents a new species, N. fuxi sp. nov.; (2) the subspecies N. naja polyocellata was resurrected and recognized as a full species N. polyocellata comb. nov.; (3) the subspecies N. sumatrana miolepis was resurrected. This study highlights the necessity to evaluate effectiveness of cobra antivenin based on comprehensive taxonomic frameworks. However, there are still some open questions about the systematics of widespread species such as N. kaouthia. The taxonomy of Asian cobras still needs further revision. A wide international collaboration network is recommended to construct a solid taxonomic framework of these medically important species for the common well-being of Asian people.

Sheng-Chao Shi, Gernot Vogel, Li Ding, Ding-Qi Rao, Shuo Liu, Liang Zhang, Zheng-Jun Wu and Ze-Ning Chen. 2022. Description of A New Cobra (Naja Laurenti, 1768; Squamata, Elapidae) from China with Designation of A Neotype for Naja atra. Animals. 12(24); 3481. DOI: 10.3390/ani12243481 

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ResearchGate.net/publication/366158847_A_New_Naja_from_China

 

Simple Summary: Cobras (Naja Laurenti, 1768) are a group of well-known highly venomous snakes, which cause numerous cases of snakebites every year, especially in South Asia and Southern China. Taxonomic framework is essential for the medical treatment of snake bites and accurate antivenin development. However, the taxonomy of Asian cobras is still puzzling, especially for the widespread species Monocled Cobra (N. kaouthia Lesson, 1831). This study provided new materials and understanding for the taxonomy of this species by combining mitochondrial phylogenetic analysis and morphological comparisons based on samples from a vast area in Asia. The results showed that the Chinese population of N. kaouthia represents a new species. This study also provided new data for N. atra and designated a neotype for it. Furthermore, the subspecies N. naja polyocellata was resurrected and recognized as a full species, N. polyocellata comb. nov., and the subspecies N. sumatrana miolepis was also resurrected. This study highlighted the necessity to evaluate the effectiveness of cobra antivenin based on a comprehensive taxonomic framework.

[Herpetology • 2022] Trimeresurus calamitas, T. kirscheyi & T. whitteni • A Review of the Complex of Trimeresurus hageni (Lidth de Jeude, 1886) (Squamata: Viperidae) with Descriptions of Three New Insular Species from Indonesia

Trimeresurus whitteni

Vogel, David & Sidik, 2022

DOI: 10.47605/tapro.v11i2.283

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Abstract

Variations in morphological characters were investigated among 124 specimens covering the whole range of the large, Indo-Malayan pitviper complex of species currently known as Trimeresurus hageni (Lidth de Jeude, 1886). Herein, we redefine T. hageni and discuss and confirm the validities of its description and name-bearing type; the lectotype is redescribed. Morphological analyses show that at least four taxa, distinct at species level, are currently confused under the combination T. hageni. As a consequence, three new insular species are described, from Nias Island, Siberut Island, and Simeulue Island. All these three new species differ from T. hageni sensu stricto by a combination of differences in scalation and pattern. T. hageni sensu stricto inhabits Sumatra and Bangka Island, as well as West Malaysia, Singapore and southern Thailand. The new species are compared with T. sumatranus and T. gunaleni, also present on Sumatra.

Key words: Great Sunda, Nias, Siberut, Simeulue, Sumatra, Trimeresurus sumatranus, West Malaysia

 

Trimeresurus calamitas

Trimeresurus kirscheyi

Trimeresurus whitteni

Gernot Vogel, Patrick David and Irvan Sidik. 2022. A Review of the Complex of Trimeresurus hageni (Lidth de Jeude, 1886) (Squamata: Viperidae) with Descriptions of Three New Insular Species from Indonesia. TAPROBANICA. 11(2); 54–83. DOI: 10.47605/tapro.v11i2.283

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[Herpetology • 2022] Systematics of the Sri Lankan Water Snakes of the Genus Fowlea Theobald 1868 (Reptilia: Natricidae)

Fowlea unicolor (Müller, 1887)

in Amarasinghe, Bandara, Weerakkody, ... et Vogel. 2022. 

DOI: 10.1655/Herpetologica-D-22-00004

 thasun.info

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Abstract 

Based on phylogenetic and morphological characters, we revise the systematics of the natricid genus Fowlea in Sri Lanka, comprising two morphospecies. The taxonomy of the Sri Lankan populations has long been controversial, and one of the species has, for more than a decade, been listed as Xenochrophis cf. piscator. Although the Sri Lankan populations are morphologically allied to Fowlea piscator in India, they are genetically highly divergent from the eastern Indian F. piscator sensu lato with a p-distance of 9.9–12.3%, and from southwestern Indian Fowlea species with a p-distance of 4.9–11.1% in the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene. Here, we resurrect Müller's (1887) variety, Tropidonotus quincunciatus var. unicolor, as a distinct taxon, elevate it to the species level, and assign it to the genus Fowlea. Therefore, the population so far recognized as X. cf. piscator will be treated hereafter as F. unicolor and we redescribe it and its holotype (by monotypy). We tentatively restrict this species to Sri Lanka and state the possibility of a population in southern India too. The second distinct species, Fowlea asperrima, which is endemic to Sri Lanka, has long been confused with its sympatric congener, F. unicolor comb. nov., and we designate a lectotype and redescribe it herein. Currently, nine species of the genus Fowlea are now recognized, but it is likely that further species (including those regarded as subjective synonyms) remain unrecognized.

KEYWORDS: Asia, distribution, lectotype, Keelback snake, morphology, synonym

A.A. Thasun Amarasinghe, Sanjaya K. Bandara, Sanjaya Weerakkody, Patrick D. Campbell, David A. Marques, A. Dineth Danushka, Anslem de Silva and Gernot Vogel. 2022. Systematics of the Sri Lankan Water Snakes of the Genus Fowlea Theobald 1868 (Reptilia: Natricidae). Herpetologica. 78 (3), 201-219. DOI: 10.1655/Herpetologica-D-22-00004

 thasun.info/Publications/Research-Articles.htm

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[Herpetology • 2022] Herpetoreas murlen • Molecular Phylogenetic Analyses of lesser known Colubrid Snakes reveal A New Species of Herpetoreas (Serpentes: Colubridae: Natricinae), and New insights into the Systematics of Gongylosoma scriptum and its allies from northeastern India

 Herpetoreas murlen

Lalremsanga, Bal, Vogel & Biakzuala, 2022

Murlen Keelback Snake  ||  salamandra-journal.com 

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Abstract

 A new species of the genus Herpetoreas is described from Murlen National Park, Mizoram, northeastern India, based on morphological differences and molecular evidence inferred from the mitochondrial cytochrome b and 16S rRNA genes. The new taxon represents the seventh nominal species in the genus Herpetoreas, out of which three species, i.e., H. pealii, H. platyceps and H. xenura, have been recorded from northeastern India as well. An updated taxonomic key to the species of Herpetoreas is provided. Our phylogenetic reconstructions of selected natricine and colubrine snakes from Mizoram state, northeastern India, also contribute to the systematics and known distribution of the little known species Gongylosoma scriptum, and corroborate its taxonomic placement into the subfamily Colubrinae. Moreover, the first molecular based identifications for Liopeltis stoliczkae and Sibynophis collaris from Mizoram are presented. 

Key words: Serpentes, Amphiesma, Hebius, Herpetoreas sp. n., Liopeltis, Mizoram, Murlen National Park, Sibynophis, taxonomy. 

 Herpetoreas murlen sp. n.

  Holotype (MZMU2041) in life (A–C).

Head of an uncollected individual in dorsolateral view (D).

Herpetoreas murlen sp. n. 

Diagnosis. Herpetoreas murlen sp. n. is diagnosable by the following morphological characters (based on the holotype, male; Figs. 3–6): 1) TaL/TL 0.23; 2) two PVe, 179 Ve, and 78 paired Sc; 3) As divided; 4) nine IL, with the first four contacting the AG, and the fourth and fifth contacting the PG; 5) eight SL, the third to fifth contacting the eye, the seventh largest; 6) Tem 1+1; 7) two PrO, and three PoO; 8) dorsal scales in 19:19:17 rows, distinctly keeled, those in the first row feebly keeled; 9) internasal scales sub-triangular; 10) scales on posterior part of head and temporal region smooth; 11) the everted hemipenes bilobate near the tip; sulcus spermaticus bifurcated just beneath the crotch; weakly developed apical naked area at the crotch and invisible from the asulcate face; numerous small spines present, increasing in size distally, and a distinct basal hook present (Fig. 6).

Etymology. The specific epithet refers to the type locality, Murlen National park, Champhai District, Mizoram, India. We propose as common names, Murlen Keelback Snake (English) and Murlen-Wassernatter (German). 

 

Hmar Tlawmte Lalremsanga, Amit Kumar Bal, Gernot Vogel and Lal Biakzuala. 2022. Molecular Phylogenetic Analyses of lesser known Colubrid Snakes reveal A New Species of Herpetoreas (Squamata: Colubridae: Natricinae), and New insights into the Systematics of Gongylosoma scriptum and its allies from northeastern India. SALAMANDRA. 58(2): 101–115

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 mizorambulletin.com/2022/05/16/mizoram-new-snake-species-discovered-and-named-after-murlen-national-park