A team of Chinese scientists has uncovered a new snake species with a distinctive bright yellow neck collar in the heart of China’s Hunan Province. The species, named Achalinus nanshanensis, adds a remarkable find to the world’s biodiversity.
Belonging to the genus Achalinus, commonly known as odd-scaled snakes, this new species is exclusively found in Chengbu and Tongdao counties in southwestern Hunan. The discovery elevates the total number of identified Achalinus species globally to 28, as recently reported in the scientific journal ZooKeys.
Achalinus snakes are notable for their unique scales that shimmer with a spectrum of colors under light. “These are cave-dwelling, earthworm-eating snakes that have fascinated herpetologists for years,” explained Mo Xiaoyang, a professor at Hunan Normal University and co-author of the study.
The striking bright yellow neck collar of Achalinus nanshanensis immediately drew researchers’ attention during fieldwork conducted between 2022 and 2023. This distinctive feature set it apart from other species in the genus, leading to its identification as a new species.
Non-venomous and typically inhabiting subtropical forests, this snake is often spotted near streams following rainfall. Its habitat preferences make it a vital indicator of environmental health in the region.
The genus Achalinus, predominantly found in China, Vietnam, and Japan, is recognized as the most diverse within the family Xenodermidae. The discovery of Achalinus nanshanensis not only enriches the genus but also underscores the rich biodiversity of Hunan Province.
Researchers emphasize the importance of this discovery in understanding the ecological dynamics of subtropical ecosystems and advocate for continued conservation efforts in the region.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
