​New Shield-Tail Snake Species Discovered in Western Ghats

Recently, a new shield-tail snake species, Uropeltis caudomaculata, has been discovered in the Meghamalai-Munnar region of the Western Ghats, distinguished by its unique tail markings and genetic differences from its closest relative.

  • The species is named Uropeltis caudomaculata due to the distinct yellow spot at the base of its tail, differentiating it from similar species that typically have stripes.
  • Initially misclassified as Uropeltis pulneyensis, a species found in the Palani Hills, Uropeltis caudomaculata was reassigned after genetic and morphological testing revealed significant differences.
  • The new species is characterized by a higher number of ventral scales compared to U. pulneyensis.
  • This new species is found ....
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Ecology & Environment