Scientists from the Vietnam-Russia Tropical Center have identified a new venomous snake species named the Blue-edged Pit Viper (Trimeresurus cyanolabris). This snake, with bright yellow eyes and a vivid green body, was discovered in the coastal forests of Central Vietnam, particularly in Ninh Thuận Province.
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The Blue-edged Pit Viper, measuring about 63 cm in length, features a triangular head, a long and slender body, a pale yellow-green belly, and a dark brick-red tail. Notably, it has a distinctive blue edge around areas such as the upper lip and neck. Molecular biology analysis indicates that this species is a distinct branch, separate from the similar-looking T. rubeus.
This snake has been recorded only in areas within the South Central Coastal Region, including Quảng Ngãi, Bình Định, Khánh Hòa, and Ninh Thuận. It inhabits tropical dry forests at elevations ranging from 90 to 400 meters above sea level.
The discovery not only increases the number of pit viper species in Asia to 50 but also highlights the importance of the South Central Coastal Region’s tropical forests in the conservation of amphibians and reptiles. Scientists will continue research and educational activities to raise awareness about first aid for snake bites and protect snake species in Vietnam.
The Blue-edged Pit Viper, measuring about 63 cm in length, features a triangular head, a long and slender body, a pale yellow-green belly, and a dark brick-red tail. Notably, it has a distinctive blue edge around areas such as the upper lip and neck. Molecular biology analysis indicates that this species is a distinct branch, separate from the similar-looking T. rubeus.
This snake has been recorded only in areas within the South Central Coastal Region, including Quảng Ngãi, Bình Định, Khánh Hòa, and Ninh Thuận. It inhabits tropical dry forests at elevations ranging from 90 to 400 meters above sea level.
The discovery not only increases the number of pit viper species in Asia to 50 but also highlights the importance of the South Central Coastal Region’s tropical forests in the conservation of amphibians and reptiles. Scientists will continue research and educational activities to raise awareness about first aid for snake bites and protect snake species in Vietnam.