[Herpetology • 2026] Trachischium lalremsangai • A New Species of Fossorial Snake of the Genus Trachischium Günther, 1858, from the Indo–Burma Biodiversity Hotspot

Trachischium lalremsangai 

Bhardwaj, Bal, Tluanga & Mirza, 2026

 DOI: doi.org/10.3897/herpetozoa.39.e187919  

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Abstract

A new species of fossorial natricine snake, Trachischium lalremsangai sp. nov., is described from the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot. The holotype was collected from Murlen National Park, Mizoram, near the India–Myanmar border, while the paratype originated from Haka Township, Chin State, Myanmar. Based on morphological and molecular data, the new species is related to T. reticulata (Blyth); however, it can be diagnosed from members of the genus Trachischium by possessing 13 dorsal scale rows, two postoculars, one anterior temporal scale, and two posterior temporal scales, in addition to distinctive colouration and other scalation details. The discovery of several new snake species within the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot underscores the need for increased research efforts and funding dedicated to this region in the near future.

Key Words: Blythia, Colubridae, Myanmar, Natricinae, northeast India, phylogeny, taxonomy

Trachischium lalremsangai sp. nov. holotype male MZMU 3757 in situ.

Trachischium lalremsangai sp. nov.

Diagnosis. A large-sized member of the genus reaching SVL of 351–432 mm. Dorsal scales smooth and iridescent, arranged in 13 rows throughout the body. Supralabials 5–6, 3rd and 4th in contact with orbit. Paired prefrontals; a pair of postoculars. Temporals 1+2. Ventrals 135 (+3–4 preventrals) and 28–29 subcaudals paired. Dorsum brown and ventrally, anterior one quarter of the snake is creamish white, while the rest is a shade of brown that has sparse white speckles.

Etymology. The specific epithet is a patronym honouring Prof. Hmar Tlawmte Lalremsanga of Mizoram University for his contributions to herpetology in Northeast India, his guidance to numerous students, and his facilitation of research throughout the region and the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot.

 Virender K. Bhardwaj, Amit K. Bal, Chhangte L. Tluanga and Zeeshan A. Mirza. 2026. A New Species of Fossorial Snake of the Genus Trachischium Günther, 1858, from the Indo–Burma Biodiversity Hotspot. Herpetozoa. 39: 203-215. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/herpetozoa.39.e187919 [19 May 2026]

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[Herpetology • 2026] Hebius malnatei • Taxonomic Reassessment of Hebius atemporalis (Bourret, 1934) (Squamata: Natricidae), with the Description of A New Species from China

 

 Hebius malnatei  Li, Nguyen, Huang, Poyarkov, David, Li & Ren, 

 in M.-L. Li, Nguyen, Huang, Idiiatullina, Le, Poyarkov, David, Han, Wu, J.-T. Li et Ren, 2026.

云贵腹链蛇  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.102.176342 

Abstract

Hebius atemporalis (Bourret, 1934) has been reported from both northern Vietnam and southern China. Previous studies revealed deep genetic divergence between the Chinese and Vietnamese populations; however, no comprehensive taxonomic revision has examined the phylogenetic relationships and taxonomic status of these divergent lineages. Here, we present an integrative taxonomic reassessment of the H. atemporalis complex, combining detailed morphological comparisons and molecular data. As a result, we identify and describe a distinct new species, Hebius malnatei sp. nov., endemic to the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, China. The new species can be distinguished from H. atemporalis sensu stricto by its larger adult body size, shorter relative tail length, higher numbers of ventrals and subcaudals, and distinctive coloration characterized by the absence of a nuchal collar. Phylogenetic analyses based on cytochrome b sequences consistently recover Hebius malnatei sp. nov. as the sister taxon of H. atemporalis s. str., with uncorrected p-distances of 8.0–9.8%. According to the IUCN Red List criteria, we recommend assigning Hebius malnatei sp. nov. to the category Least Concern (LC). This study highlights the need for taxonomic revision of widely distributed Hebius species and underscores the role of the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau uplift in promoting species diversification.

Key Words: Cryptic diversity, cytochrome b, morphology, taxonomy, Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau

Photographs in life of Hebius malnatei sp. nov. from China:
CIB 122551, Pugu, Panzhou, Liupanshui, Guizhou (A); CIB 122558, Heilongtan Park, Kunming, Yunnan (B, C); Mengzi, Yunnan (D); Pugu, Panzhou, Liupanshui, Guizhou (E).

Photographs by J.J. Huang (A) and M. L. Li (B–E).

Hebius malnatei Li, Nguyen, Huang, Poyarkov, David, Li & Ren, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. Hebius malnatei sp. nov. is distinguished from all congeners by the following combination of characters: (1) small body size, maximum snout-vent length 416 mm; (2) head small, narrow, and moderately distinct from neck; (3) maxillary teeth 26–29, gradually enlarged posteriorly; (4) supralabials 6 (rarely 5), with the 3rd and 4th entering the orbit; (5) temporal scale absent or represented by a small narrow scale; (6) infralabials 7 (rarely 6); (7) dorsal scale rows 17-17-17, weakly keeled except for the outermost 1–6 rows; (8) ventrals 146–156 with two preventrals; (9) subcaudals 60–70, paired; (10) ventral surface of head white, scattered with black spots or streaks; (11) sutures of infralabials strongly edged in black; (12) a white to orangish nuchal collar absent; (13) dorsal ground color gradually changing from brown to dark olive, usually with a series of discontinuous light spots along the lateral side, forming an inconspicuous stripe; (14) tail relatively short (TaL/SVL ratio 0.22–0.27).

Etymology. The specific epithet malnatei is a patronym in genitive declension honoring Edmond V. Malnate (1916–2003), an American herpetologist who made significant contributions to the taxonomy and systematics of Asian colubrid snakes, especially within Natricidae, and who first revised the taxonomic placement of Hebius atemporalis. 

We recommend the following common names for this species: English: “Malnate’s Keelback”, Chinese (中文): “云贵腹链蛇” (Yún Guì Fù Liàn Shé) for its restricted distribution to Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau. Vietnamese: “Rắn sãi Man-lát”, French: “Couleuvre aquatique de Malnate”, Russian (Русский): “Лесной уж Мэлнейта” (Lesnoy Uzh Melneyta).

Distribution. Hebius malnatei sp. nov. is likely endemic to China, with its known range restricted to the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau at elevations of 1,750–1,950 m a.s.l. (Fig. 5).

 Mao-Liang Li, Tan Van Nguyen, Jun-Jie Huang, Sabira S. Idiiatullina, Son Xuan Le, Nikolay A. Poyarkov, Patrick David, Bu-Ying Han, Wei Wu, Jia-Tang Li and Jin-Long Ren. 2026. Taxonomic Reassessment of Hebius atemporalis (Bourret, 1934) (Squamata, Natricidae), with the Description of A New Species from China. Zoosystematics and Evolution. 102(1): 235-251.  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.102.176342 

[Herpetology • 2026] Hebius ngoclinhensis • A New Snake of the Genus Hebius (Serpentes: Natricidae) from the Ngoc Linh Mountain Range, Vietnam

 Hebius ngoclinhensis 

Le, Phan, T. L. Nguyen, Murphy, Lam, S. N. Nguyen & Che, 2026

 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5748.4.2 

 Researchgate.net/publication/399775730

 

Abstract

We describe a new keelback snake of the genus Hebius from the Ngoc Linh Mountain Range, Central Highlands, Vietnam, based on morphological characters and molecular evidence (Cytb). Hebius ngoclinhensis sp. nov. is diagnosed by the following combination of morphological features: dorsal scale rows 19-19-17; first dorsal scale row smooth; ventrals 143–148; subcaudals 95–97, paired; two preoculars; two or three postoculars; one loreal; eight or nine supralabials; ten infralabials; cloacal plate divided; maxillary teeth 24–26, gradually enlarged, with two distinctly enlarged teeth posteriorly; 17 keeled dorsal scale rows at midbody; dorsal surface of body and tail dark brown with numerous irregular dark yellow spots; a distinct reddish-brown dorsolateral stripe on the 4th–7th dorsal scale rows on each side; ventral surface of body and tail reddish-orange to orange; and lateral margins of ventrals and subcaudals dark brown. In addition, the new species differs from its congeners by an uncorrected p-distance in Cytb sequences of at least 9.3%.

Reptilia, Central highlands of Vietnam, Hebius ngoclinhensis sp. nov., keelback snakes, mitochondrial DNA, taxonomy

Holotype of  Hebius ngoclinhensis sp. nov. (ILS h.20386) in life.
A, whole body in dorsolateral view; B, whole body in ventral view;
C–F, dorsal, ventral, and lateral views of head, respectively (scale bar 5 mm);
 G & H, sulcal and asulcal views of hemipenis, respectively.

  Paratypes of  Hebius ngoclinhensis sp. nov. in life.
 ILS h.20756, adult female: A & B, dorsal and ventral views of whole body, respectively; C–F, dorsal, ventral, and lateral views of head, respectively. ILS h.20765, subadult male: G–H, dorsolateral and ventral views of whole body; I & K, dorsal and lateral views of head, respectively; L, sulcal view of hemipenis. Scale bars 5 mm.

Distribution and habitat of Hebius ngoclinhensis sp. nov.
A, sampling sites: 1–3, Dak Glei District, Kon Tum Province, Vietnam; 4, Tra My District, Quang Nam Province, Vietnam).
B & C, macro- and microhabitat of the new species in the type locality, respectively

MANH VAN LE, KHANH DUY PHAN, THANH LUAN NGUYEN, ROBERT W. MURPHY, NGON QUANG LAM, SANG NGOC NGUYEN and JING CHE. 2026. A New Snake of the Genus Hebius (Serpentes: Natricidae) from the Ngoc Linh Mountain Range, Vietnam.  Zootaxa. 5748(4); 480-498. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5748.4.2 [2026-01-15]

 Researchgate.net/publication/399775730_A_new_snake_of_the_genus_Hebius_from_the_Ngoc_Linh_Mountain_Range_Vietnam

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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] Hebius shantianfangi • A New Species of the Genus Hebius (Serpentes: Natricidae), previously confused with H. boulengeri (Gressitt, 1937)

Hebius shantianfangi 

 Liu, J. Wang, Hou, Zhang, Q. Wang, Zong, Zhou, Rao, David & Vogel, 2025

Shan’s keelback | 单氏腹链蛇  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1254.161130 

Abstract

A new species of the genus Hebius is described from Yunnan Province, China. The new species was previously identified as H. boulengeri, but it can be separated from H. boulengeri and other species of this genus by a combination of the following characters: 19-19-17 dorsal scale rows, 148–155 ventrals, 90–105 subcaudals, one preocular, three postoculars, 23–25 maxillary teeth, a distinct continuous white streak from posteroventral margin of eye extending backward and upward to nape to connect with dorsolateral stripe on each side, and white venter. The genetic divergence between the new species and H. boulengeri was 6.6% and the genetic divergences between the new species and other congeners ranged from 6.8% to 15.9% in the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene.

Key words: Keelback snake, mitochondrial gene, morphological comparison, phylogenetic analysis, Pu’er City, taxonomy, Xishuangbanna Prefecture

The holotype (KIZ 064970) of Hebius shantianfangi sp. nov. in life.
A. Dorsal view; B. Ventral view.

 Hebius shantianfangi sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis. Body slender, SVL 332–406 mm, TL 506–610 mm; tail relatively long, TaL/TL 0.31–0.34; dorsal scales in 19-19-17 rows, all strongly keeled except for 1st row on each side; ventrals 148–155; cloacal plate divided; subcaudals 90–105, paired; loreal one, not entering orbit; preocular one, postoculars three; supralabials mostly nine, rarely ten, mostly 4th–6th entering orbit, rarely 5th–7th entering orbit; infralabials 9–11; maxillary teeth 23–25, last one or two distinctly enlarged, no diastema separating enlarged posterior teeth with anterior ones; a distinct continuous white streak from posteroventral margin of eye extending backward and upward to nape on each side; dorsolateral stripes present; venter white, ventrolateral blotches present, composed of a dark grey spot on edge of each ventral on each side.

Etymology. Named after the late renowned Chinese storytelling artist, Tianfang Shan (17.12.1934–11.09.2018). This species was previously confused with H. boulengeri, whose Chinese name is “白眉腹链蛇”. In China, when “白眉” is mentioned, people first think of Tianfang Shan’s classic storytelling “白眉大侠”. This specific epithet commemorates Tianfang Shan, who devoted his whole life to storytelling and left countless indelible memories for people. We suggest “Shan’s keelback” as the English name and “单氏腹链蛇” (Pinyin: shàn shì fù liàn shé) as the Chinese name of the new species.

Comparison of the body coloration between Hebius shantianfangi sp. nov. and H. boulengeri.
A. Holotype (KIZ 064970) of Hebius shantianfangi sp. nov.;
B. H. boulengeri from Shaoguan City, Guangdong Province, China.

 Shuo Liu, JiShan Wang, Mian Hou, Liang Zhang, Qiaoyan Wang, Chunmiao Zong, Jiang Zhou, Dingqi Rao, Patrick David and Gernot Vogel. 2025. A New Species of the Genus Hebius (Squamata, Natricidae), previously confused with H. boulengeri (Gressitt, 1937). ZooKeys. 1254: 263-282. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1254.161130 

[Herpetology • 2025] Smithophis leptofasciatus • A New Species of the Genus Smithophis Giri, et al., 2019 (Serpentes: Natricidae) from Mizoram, northeast India

 

Smithophis leptofasciatus

Muansanga, Purkayastha, Hruaia, Vabeiryureilai, Biakzuala, Decemson, Lalremsanga & Bohra, 2025

  

TAPROBANICA. 14(2)

Abstract 

Based on two specimens, we describe a new species of snake in the genus Smithophis from Mizoram, as determined through detailed morphological and molecular analyses of the cytochrome b mitochondrial gene. The new species genetically forms a sister taxon to the clade containing S. atemporalis, S. bicolor, and S. mizoramensis, with a strong nodal branch support along with a deep level of genetic divergence. The species can be easily distinguished from its congeners by several morphological and colouration characters, including the presence of distinct, narrow, and incomplete transverse bands in the dorsum. Our study also precisely determines the distribution of S. bicolor, restricting its range to Meghalaya and removing it from the faunal list of Mizoram. 

Keywords: cytochrome b, India, rain snake, Rhabdops, Smithophis bicolor, systematics, taxonomy

Smithophis leptofasciatus sp. nov. 

Diagnosis. The new species is a small sized natricid snake having a maximum SVL of 329 mm as well as a maximum TaL of 82 mm and can be diagnosed from all its congeners based on a combination of the following characters: (1) 17 smooth dorsal scale rows throughout the body; (2) 195–201 ventrals; (3) 67–78 subcaudals, all of which are paired; (4) anal scale paired; (5) a total of five circumorbital scales surrounding and touching the eye; (6) temporal scales distinctly present; (7) absence of keeled sacral scales in both males and females; (8) dorsum colour ...

Etymology. The specific epithet “leptofasciatus” is a Greek and Latin compound adjective (leptos + fasciatus) in the nominative singular given in masculine, which refers to “narrow banded” transverse body pattern on the dorsum, a distinct and distinguishing characteristic of the species. Suggested common name: narrow-banded rain snake (in English) and Ruahrul (in Mizo).

Lal Muansanga, Jayaditya Purkayastha, Vanlal Hruaia, Mathipi Vabeiryureilai, Lal Biakzuala, Ht Decemson, Hmar T. Lalremsanga and Sanath C. Bohra. 2025. A New Species of the Genus Smithophis Giri, Gower, Das et al., 2019 (Reptilia: Serpentes: Natricidae) from Mizoram, northeast India. TAPROBANICA. 14(2); 158-165. 

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[Herpetology • 2025] Same but Different: A Systematic Reassessment of the Hebius khasiensis Boulenger, 1890 (Squamata: Natricidae) Species Complex from the Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot supports the Revalidation of Natrix gilhodesi Wall, 1925 as A Valid Species

Hebius gilhodesi Wall, 1925; 
 Hebius khasiensis Boulenger, 1890 

in Bohra, Nguyen, Vogel, Lalremsanga, Biakzuala, Das, Warjri, Thongni, Poyarkov et Purkayastha, 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5604.4.3 

 facebook.com: Sanath BOHRA

Abstract

This study provides new insights into the systematics of the natricid species Hebius khasiensis Boulenger sensu lato. Our findings are based on recent collections from northeast India, including the type locality in the Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, and the examination of its syntypes. There is a species named Natrix gilhodesi Wall from Kachin State, Myanmar, which is currently considered a subjective junior synonym of H. khasiensis, but molecular data based on the mitochondrial gene analysis show that populations from northeast India and Kachin, Myanmar are deeply divergent from each other. Here, we redescribe H. khasiensis and designate an adult female from its syntypes as the lectotype for the taxonomic stability of the given species. We also revalidate Natrix gilhodesi from Myanmar as a valid species of the genus Hebius based on molecular and morphological parameters.

Reptilia, cytochrome b, keelback, snake, taxonomy, north-east India

Sanath Chandra BOHRA, Tan Van NGUYEN, Gernot VOGEL, Hmar Tlawmte LALREMSANGA, Lal BIAKZUALA, Madhurima DAS, Holiness WARJRI, Goldenstar THONGNI, Nikolay A. POYARKOV, Jayaditya PURKAYASTHA. 2025. Same but Different: A Systematic Reassessment of the Hebius khasiensis Boulenger, 1890 (Reptilia: Squamata: Natricidae) Species Complex from the Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot supports the Revalidation of Natrix gilhodesi Wall, 1925 as A Valid Species.  Zootaxa. 5604(4); 465-504. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5604.4.3 [2025-03-17]

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 Researchgate.net/publication/389907958_A_systematic_reassessment_of_the_Hebius_khasiensis_species_complex_from_the_Indo-Burma_biodiversity_hotspot

[Herpetology • 2023] Identity of the Holotype and Type Locality of Rhabdophis leonardi (Wall, 1923) (Colubridae: Natricinae), with notes on the morphology and natural history of the species in southwestern China

 

Rhabdophis leonardi  (Wall, 1923)

 in Yang, Savitzky, Gower, Deepak, Mori, ... et Zhu, 2023.

DOI: doi.org/10.1002/ece3.10032 

 Researchgate.net/publication/370470860

(photos by S. Yang, G. Zhu, W. Tang, Xu from Huangcao Village & L. Ding)

Abstract

The original description of Natrix leonardi (currently Rhabdophis leonardi) by Frank Wall in 1923, based on a specimen from the “Upper Burma Hills,” lacked important morphological details that have complicated the assignment of recently collected material. Furthermore, although the holotype was never lost, its location has been misreported in one important taxonomic reference, leading to further confusion. We report the correct repository of the holotype (Natural History Museum, London), together with its current catalog number. We also describe key features of that specimen that were omitted from the original description, and provide new details on the morphology of the species, including sexual dichromatism unusual for the genus, based upon specimens from southern Sichuan, China. Rhabdophis leonardi is distinguished from its congeners by the following characters: 15 or 17 DSR at midbody and 6 supralabials; distinct annulus around the neck, broad and red in males, and narrow and orange with a black border in females; dorsal ground color light green or olive; some lateral and dorsal scales possessing black edges, the frequency of black edges gradually increasing from anterior to posterior, forming irregular and ill-defined transverse black bands; eye with prominent green iris; black ventral spots with a red edge, most numerous at midbody but extending halfway down the length of the tail. In southwestern China, this species is frequently found at 1730–2230 m elevation. It has been documented to prey upon anuran amphibians, including toads. A recently published phylogenetic analysis showed this species to be deeply nested with the genus Rhabdophis, as a member of the R. nuchalis Group. That analysis also revealed the existence of two closely related but geographically distinct subclades in the molecular analysis, one of which may represent an unnamed taxon.

Keywords: distribution, morphology, Natricidae, Sinlum Kaba, snakes, systematics

Photos of the holotype of Rhabdophis leonardi, BMNH 1946.1.12.86 (female). Top row (left to right), details of head in dorsal, right lateral, ventral, and left lateral views. Center row (left to right), dorsal and ventral views of entire specimen. Bottom row (left to right), details of posterior body and tail in dorsal (2 views), ventral, and left lateral views. (photos by Kevin Webb, Photo Unit, Natural History Museum, London).

Photos of Rhabdophis leonardi in life.
(a) Male (SICAU201705031) (photo by Shijun Yang); (b) Female (SICAU201705027) (photo by Guangxiang Zhu);
(c) offspring of SICAU201705027, incubated in laboratory (SICAU201707021) (photo by Wenjiang Tang); (d) out-of-focus photo of R. leonardi consuming a toad in the field (photo by Mr. Xu from Huangcao Village, Panzhihua City, China);
(e, f) individual (not collected) from the West Mountain of Kunming, Yunnan Province, China (photos by Li Ding).

Shi-Jun Yang, Alan H. Savitzky, David J. Gower, V. Deepak, Akira Mori, Rahul Khot, Jing-Song Shi, Li Ding, Mian Hou, Hai-Yuan Xu, Qin Wang and Guang-Xiang Zhu. 2023. Identity of the Holotype and Type Locality of Rhabdophis leonardi (Wall, 1923) (Colubridae: Natricinae), with notes on the morphology and natural history of the species in southwestern China. Ecology and Evolution. DOI: doi.org/10.1002/ece3.10032 

 Researchgate.net/publication/370470860_Identity_of_the_holotype_of_Rhabdophis_leonardi_Wall_1923_Colubridae_Natricinae

[Herpetology • 2024] Rediscovery and Revision of the Diagnostic Characters of Opisthotropis daovantieni (Squamata: Natricidae) from southern Vietnam, with notes on its hemipenial morphology and defensive behavior

  

Opisthotropis daovantieni Orlov, Darevsky & Murphy, 1998

in Gao, Zhang, V. Nguyen, Jiang, T. Nguyen, Li et Ren, 2024. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.3724/ahr.2095-0357.2024.0048 

Photographs by Jia-Tang Li.

Abstract

The Tien’s Mountain Stream Snake, Opisthotropis daovantieni Orlov, Darevsky, and Murphy, 1998, has been represented solely by its type series, with no additional specimens reported in the past two decades. As a result, limited data exist and O. daovantieni remains one of the least studied members of its genus. Based on a re-examination of the type series, analysis of newly collected topotypic specimens, and a review of museum collections, this study provides an updated and comprehensive morphological characterization of O. daovantieni including detailed descriptions of hemipenial morphology, revised diagnostic characters, phylogenetic positioning, and ecological insights. Based on morphological comparisons with congeners, we also define the informal Opisthotropis spenceri group to facilitate future taxonomic work. In addition, this study documents a previously unreported defensive behavior involving tail-poking, observed in the field and thus far unique within the genus Opisthotropis.

Keywords: diagnostic characters, hemipenis, Opisthotropis spenceri group, sulcus spermaticus, tail-poking behavior

Photographs of Opisthotropis daovantieni (CIB 109024) in life.
 (A) General view of body, (B) lateral head view, and (C) ventral view of body.

Photographs by Jia-Tang Li.

Habitat of Opisthotropis daovantieni in Vietnam.
(A) Macrohabitat, and (B) microhabitat.

Photographs by Jia-Tang Li.

 

Zong-Yuan Gao, Yong Zhang, Vu Nguyen, Ke Jiang, Tao Nguyen, Jia-Tang Li and Jin-Long Ren. 2024. Rediscovery and Revision of the Diagnostic Characters of Opisthotropis daovantieni Orlov, Darevsky, and Murphy, 1998 (Squamata: Natricidae) from southern Vietnam, with notes on its hemipenial morphology and defensive behavior. Asian Herpetological Research. DOI: doi.org/10.3724/ahr.2095-0357.2024.0048 

[Herpetology • 2024] Herpetoreas abros • A New Species of Herpetoreas Günther, 1860 (Serpentes: Natricidae) from Yunnan, China

 

Herpetoreas abros 

 Liu, Hou, Zhou, Zuo, Yin & Rao, 2024 

 

铜壁关腹链蛇  ||  DOI: doi.org/10.3390/d16120768 

Abstract

A new species of the genus Herpetoreas is described from Yunnan Tongbiguan Provincial Nature Reserve, Yingjiang County, Dehong Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China. The new species can be separated from its congeners by a combination of the following characteristics: tail length to total length being 0.29, dorsal scales being all strongly keeled, 165 ventrals, divided cloacal plate, 89 pairs of subcaudals, 24 maxillary teeth, last two maxillary teeth being distinctly enlarged, approximately 13 white speckles presenting on anterior lateral surface of body, pale pink anterior venter, pink posterior venter, and rose red ventral tail. The genetic divergence between the new species and other species of this genus ranged from 6.7% to 13.0% in the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene. The new taxon represents the fifth species of the genus Herpetoreas in China and the first species of this genus in Yunnan Province.

Keywords: Cyt b; morphology; systematics; taxonomy; Yunnan Tongbiguan Provincial Nature Reserve

 Close-up views of the head of the holotype (KIZ 2024150) of Herpetoreas abros sp. nov. in life.
(A) left side; (B) right side; (C) dorsal side; (D) ventral side.

The holotype (KIZ 2024150) of Herpetoreas abros sp. nov. in life.
(A) left view; (B) right view; (C) dorsal view; (D) ventral view.

Herpetoreas abros sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Body cylindrical, snout–vent length 554 mm, total length 775 mm; tail relatively long, tail length/total length 0.29; dorsal scales in 19–19–17 rows, all strongly keeled; ventrals 165; cloacal plate divided; subcaudals 89, paired; preocular one, postoculars three; supralabials eight, third–fifth entering orbit; maxillary teeth 24, last two distinctly enlarged, separated from anterior teeth by a small diastema; upper lips white, three black vertical stripes on anterior upper lip on each side; approximately 13 white speckles on anterior lateral surface of body; anterior venter pale pink and posterior venter pink; ventral tail rose red.

Etymology: The specific epithet “abros” is a Latinized adjective in a nominative singular derived from the classical Greek word “abros” (aβρός), meaning “cute”, “handsome”, and “delicate”. The name is given in reference to the cute appearance of this species. We suggest “Cute Himalayas Keelback” as its English common name and “铜壁关腹链蛇 (Pinyin: tóng bì guān fù liàn shé)” as its Chinese common name according to its type locality.

Shuo Liu, Mian Hou, Hongxin Zhou, Changsheng Zuo, Fawang Yin and Dingqi Rao. 2024. A New Species of Herpetoreas Günther, 1860 (Serpentes: Natricidae) from Yunnan, China. Diversity. 16(12); 768. DOI: doi.org/10.3390/d16120768 

[Herpetology • 2024] Smithophis mizoramensis • A New Species of Smithophis Giri et al. 2019 (Serpentes: Colubridae) from the Indo-Burma Region

  

Smithophis mizoramensis

 Mirza, Bhardwaj, Lalmuanawma, Choure, Lalremsanga, Vabeiryureilai, Captain, Zagade & Patel, 2024 

DOI: 10.3390/d16080480 mdpi.com/2903710  

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Abstract

The natricine snake genus Smithophis Giri, Gower, Das, Lalremsanga, Lalronunga, Captain, and Deepak, 2019, is represented by four species, three of which are distributed in northeast India and Bangladesh, and a single species in Yunnan and Myanmar. In the past, S. bicolor (Blyth, 1855) was said to be widespread across northeast India and Myanmar; however, recent studies have shown it to be a species complex. Here, we describe a new species of the complex from the Indian state of Mizoram that resembles S. bicolor. The new species differs in bearing a patterned dorsum, a darker venter, and moderately keeled sacral scales. Re-examination of types of S. arunachalensis Das, Deepak, Captain, Wade, and Gower, 2020, shows the presence of strongly keeled sacral keels in males, which is an important diagnostic character. A revised key to members of the genus is presented with notes on S. arunachalensis.

Keywords: biodiversity hotspot; Colubridae; morphology; natricinae; Opisthotropis; taxonomy

Smithophis mizoramensis sp. nov. in life,
(a) BNHS 3767, photo by Jignesh Patel;
(b) an uncollected individual from Tam Dil National Wetland, Saitual district, Mizoram,

photo by Prashant Vaghela.

Smithophis mizoramensis sp. nov.

Diagnosis: A Smithophis with 17 smooth dorsal scales throughout the body and moderately keeled sacral scales in males. Temporal scales are present. Circum-orbital scales 4–5. Dorsal coloration is a shade of olive with indistinct dark reticulate patterns in life, overall black with faint gray reticulate markings or bands on the body in preservative. Each ventral scale is darker anteriorly edged with a yellowish/off-white border; the tail is ventrally darker compared to the ventral scales. Sequence divergence of 10–14% from other Smithophis for the gene cyt b.

Etymology: The specific epithet refers to the Indian state of Mizoram, where the new species was discovered, and that has yielded many notable herpetological discoveries. The type and all other currently known localities of the new species are in Mizoram. This is the first snake to be named after the state. As individuals were mostly encountered in and around small hill streams, we suggest the common names Mizo Brook Snake (English) and Tuithiangrul (Mizo).

 Zeeshan A. Mirza, Virender K. Bhardwaj, Jote Chawntual Lalmuanawma, Girish Choure, Hmar Tlawmte Lalremsanga, Mathipi Vabeiryureilai, Ashok Captain, Akshay Zagade and Harshil Patel. 2024. A New Species of Smithophis Giri et al. 2019 from the Indo-Burma Region. Diversity. 16(8); 480. DOI:doi.org/10.3390/d16080480 mdpi.com/2903710 

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[Herpetology • 2024] Hebius citrinoventer • A New Species of the Genus Hebius (Squamata: Natricidae) from Yunnan, China

Hebius citrinoventer Xu, Yang, Ouyang, Huang & Peng, 

in Xu, Yang, Gong, Ouyang, Weng, Deng, Huang et Peng, 2024. 

盈江腹链蛇 | Yingjiang Keelback Snake ||  DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1206.123841

Abstract

A new species of the genus Hebius Thompson, 1913 is described from Yingjiang County, Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China, based on molecular and morphological evidence. It can be distinguished from its congeners by the following set of characters: (1) dorsal scale rows 19–17–17, feebly keeled; (2) ventrals 146–151; (3) nasal complete, nostril in the middle of the nasal; (4) supralabials 9, the fourth to sixth in contact with the eye; (5) infralabials 10–11, the first 5 touching the first pair of chin shields; (6) preoculars 2; (7) postoculars 3; (8) temporals 3, arranged in two rows (1+2); (9) maxillary teeth 31, the last 4 slightly enlarged, without diastema; (10) tail comparatively long, TAL/TL ratio 0.334 in the male; (11) dorsolateral series of irregular orange or ochre yellow blotches, extending from the neck to the posterior part of the tail; and (12) venter pale orange, tips of ventrals with subrectangular black blotches. All Hebius specimens were strongly recovered as monophyletic, in which Hebius taronensis (Smith, 1940) and Hebius venningi (Wall, 1910) were monophyletic as sister to the Yingjiang County specimens. According to the p‐distance of cytochrome b, the new species differs from its congeners by 9.7–15.4%.

Key words: Cyt b, Hebius citrinoventer sp. nov., keelback snake, molecular systematics, Natricinae, taxonomy, Yingjiang County

Preserved specimen of the holotype (ANU20230016) of Hebius citrinoventer sp. nov.

 Photos by Yu-Hao Xu. Scale bars: 10 mm.

Fresh specimen of the holotype (ANU20230016) of Hebius citrinoventer sp. nov.:
dorsal (A), and ventral views (B).

Photos by Kai-Chen Ouyang. Scale bars are not shown.

 Hebius citrinoventer Xu, Yang, Ouyang, Huang & Peng, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Hebius citrinoventer sp. nov. can be distinguished from its congeners by the following set of characters: (1) DSR 19–17–17, feebly keeled; (2) ventrals 146–151; (3) nasal complete, nostril in the middle of the nasal; (4) supralabials 9, the fourth to sixth in contact with the eye; (5) infralabials 10–11, the first 5 touching the first pair of chin shields; (6) preoculars 2; (7) postoculars 3; (8) temporals 3, arranged in two rows (1+2); (9) maxillary teeth 31, the last 4 slightly enlarged, without diastema; (10) tail comparatively long, TAL/TL ratio 0.334 in male; (11) dorsolateral series of irregular orange or ochre yellow blotches, extending from the neck to the posterior part of the tail; and (12) venter pale orange, tips of ventrals with subrectangular black blotches.

Etymology: The specific name citrinoventer comprises the Latin words “citrinus” (yellowish-orange or orange) and “venter” (the belly or underside), based on the pale orange venter of the new species. According to its type locality Yingjiang County, Yunnan Province, China, the name we suggest is Yíng Jiāng Fù Liàn Shé (盈江腹链蛇) in Chinese and Yingjiang Keelback Snake in English.

 Yu-Hao Xu, Dian-Cheng Yang, Yan-An Gong, Kai-Chen Ouyang, Shi-Yang Weng, Jun-Dong Deng, Song Huang and Li-Fang Peng. 2024. A New Species of the Genus Hebius (Squamata, Natricidae) from Yunnan, China. ZooKeys. 1206: 255-274. DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1206.123841

[Herpetology • 2024] Herpetoreas davidi • Taxonomic Reassessment of the Herpetoreas xenura (Wall, 1907) (Serpentes: Natricidae) from Myanmar with Description of A New Species

 

Herpetoreas davidi Nguyen, Lalremsanga, Biakzuala & Vogel, 2024
[B, C] Herpetoreas xenura (Wall, 1907)
[H, I] Hebius khasiensis (Boulenger, 1890)

in Nguyen, Lalremsanga, Biakzuala & Vogel, 2024.

DOI: 10.5852/ejt.2024.932.2519 

 facebook.com: Nguyen Van Tan

ABSTRACT

The review of the taxonomic status of Herpetoreas xenura species complex, based on morphological and molecular data, revealed a new species from Myanmar, which we describe as Herpetoreas davidi sp. nov. from the Rakhine Yoma Elephant Wildlife Sanctuary in Rakhine State. It is suggested to be a sister species to Herpetoreas pealii and Herpetoreas xenura sensu stricto, and can be separated from the latter species by a combination of morphological and scalation characters, and by its pattern. Another population from the Htamanthi Wildlife Sanctuary, Sagaing Region, was previously confused with H. xenura. However, as a closer examination of its morphology, shows it to be closer to Hebius khasiensis, we herein tentatively refer to this population as Hebius khasiensis, pending further molecular data confirming its taxonomic status. Consequently, we propose to temporarily remove Herpetoreas xenura from the fauna of Myanmar. Further studies, especially in the northwestern region of Myanmar, such as near border with India in Chin Hills and Naga Hills, are required. An updated key for the species of Herpetoreas is also provided.

Keywords: distribution, Herpetoreas davidi sp. nov., Indo-Burmese region, Naga Hills, Rakhine Hills, taxonomy

A–F. Herpetoreas xenura (Wall, 1907) in life. A–C. Mizoram, India. D–F. Kaptai National Park, Chittagong, Bangladesh.
G–I. Hebius khasiensis (Boulenger, 1890) in life. G. Tamdil, Mizoram, India. H. Bhamo, Kachin, Myanmar. I. Nakhon Thai, Phitsanulok, Thailand.

Photos by G. Vogel (A–C), Reza (2010) (D–E), P. Shinde (G), K.C. Ouyang (H), and P. Pawangkhanant (I).

Herpetoreas davidi sp. nov.
A–F. Holotype, ♂(CAS 222969) in preservation. A. Lateral view of the head, right side. B. Lateral view of the head, left side. C. Ventral view of the head. D. Dorsal view of the head. E. General dorsal view. F. General ventral view.
G–H. Paratype, ♀ (CAS 220256). G. General dorsal view. H. General ventral view.

Photos by G. Vogel.

Tan Van Nguyen, Hmar Tlawmte Lalremsanga, Lal Biakzuala and Gernot Vogel. 2024. Taxonomic Reassessment of the Herpetoreas xenura (Wall, 1907) (Squamata: Serpentes: Natricidae) from Myanmar with Description of A New Species. European Journal of Taxonomy. 932(1), 158–203. DOI: 10.5852/ejt.2024.932.2519

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