The Green Keelback, scientifically known as Macropisthodon plumbicolor, is a species of mildly venomous snake found in Southeast Asia. It is known for its striking green coloration and slender body shape.
Scalation:
The Green Keelback has smooth scales arranged in 15 rows on its back. It has 140-165 ventral scales and 40-53 subcaudal scales. The anal scale is divided, and there are 8 supralabials and 10-12 infralabials. False Cobra (Pseudoxenodon macrops) has a unique scalation pattern that can help distinguish it from other snake species. Here are some details about its scalation:
- Dorsal Scales: The snake has smooth dorsal scales arranged in 19-21 rows at midbody. The scales are weakly keeled and reduce in size towards the tail.
- Ventrals: The ventral scales are smooth and shiny, and the number of ventrals varies between 225-245.
- Subcaudals: The subcaudals are paired, and the number of subcaudals varies between 60-85.
- Anal Plate: The anal plate is divided.
- Head Scales: The head of the False Cobra is distinct, and the head scales are small and smooth. It has a single large supraocular scale, and a pair of large postocular scales.
- Eye Scales: The snake has large eyes with round pupils. The eye scales are small, with a single preocular and two postocular scales.
- Other Scales: The snake has 8-9 upper labials, with the third and fourth contacting the eye. It also has 10-11 lower labials.
Overall, False Cobra has a sleek and slender appearance with a distinct head and unique scalation pattern. The weakly keeled dorsal scales and large supraocular scale can help identify the species. The number of scales may vary slightly between individuals, but the overall pattern remains consistent.
Appearance:
The Green Keelback is a small to medium-sized snake, with an average length of around 60-90 cm (2-3 feet). It has a slender body shape and a slightly flattened head. The body is bright green in color, with a light-colored belly. The eyes are large and round, with round pupils.
Natural History:
The Green Keelback is primarily active during the day and feeds on a variety of prey, including frogs, lizards, and small mammals. It is often found near bodies of water, such as streams or rice paddies.
Habitat:
The Green Keelback is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and agricultural areas. It is found throughout Southeast Asia, including countries such as Thailand, Myanmar, and Malaysia.
Behavior:
The Green Keelback is generally a non-aggressive species of snake and will typically try to escape when confronted. However, if cornered, it may strike in self-defense. The venom of the Green Keelback is considered to be mild and is not considered dangerous to humans.
Reproduction:
Little is known about the reproductive biology of the Green Keelback, but it is believed to be oviparous, laying eggs rather than giving birth to live young.
Venomous or Non-venomous and Venom Strength:
The Green Keelback is a mildly venomous species of snake, with a venom that is considered to be relatively weak. While its bite may cause mild pain and swelling, it is not considered dangerous to humans.
Location and Conservation:
The Green Keelback is found throughout Southeast Asia, including countries such as Thailand, Myanmar, and Malaysia. It is not considered to be under threat and is listed as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
The Green Keelback is a fascinating species of snake found throughout Southeast Asia. Its striking green coloration and non-aggressive behavior make it a unique and intriguing creature to study. The conservation of its habitat is crucial for the preservation of this species and the maintenance of biodiversity in the region. While mildly venomous, the Green Keelback is not considered dangerous to humans.
