Scientists have discovered a new species of Shield-tailed Snake, Uropeltis caudomaculata, in the Shola forests of the Western Ghats’ Meghamalai-Munnar region.
About Uropeltis caudomaculata:
- Uropeltis caudomaculata is distinguished by a yellow spot on each side of the tail base, unlike its closest relative, Uropeltis pulneyensis, which has a stripe.
- This species is found exclusively in three locations: Meghamalai Tiger Reserve in Tamil Nadu, and Periyar Tiger Reserve and Yellapetty, Munnar in Kerala.
- Shield-tail snakes, including Uropeltis caudomaculata, are non-venomous and small, belonging to the family Uropeltidae.
- Globally, there are 65 species of shieldtails, with 47 of these found in India.
Ref: Source
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What distinguishes Uropeltis caudomaculata from its closest relative?
Uropeltis caudomaculata has yellow spots on the tail base, while Uropeltis pulneyensis has a stripe.
Where is Uropeltis caudomaculata exclusively found?
It is found in Meghamalai Tiger Reserve, Periyar Tiger Reserve, and Yellapetty in Kerala.
Are shield-tail snakes, including Uropeltis caudomaculata, venomous?
No, they are non-venomous and small in size.
How many species of shieldtails are found globally?
There are a total of 65 species of shieldtails globally.
How many shieldtail snake species are found in India?
India is home to 47 out of the 65 shieldtail snake species.