The Iridescent Snake, Blythia reticulata, is a medium-sized species of snake belonging to the family Colubridae. Adults can reach lengths of up to 1 meter (about 3 feet), with females typically larger than males. Their bodies are cylindrical and moderately elongated, with a slightly flattened head and slender tail.
Scalation:
Blythia reticulata is characterized by smooth scales that are iridescent and shimmer in the light. They have 15 rows of dorsal scales at mid-body, and their ventral scales are smooth and undivided. The snake has a single anal scale and its subcaudal scales are also undivided.
The Iridescent Snake, Blythia reticulata, has the following scalation:
Dorsal scales: 15 rows at mid-body, smooth
Ventral scales: Smooth and undivided
Anal scale: Single
Subcaudal scales: Undivided
The scales of Blythia reticulata are smooth and iridescent, which gives them a distinct appearance in the light.
Blythia reticulata, commonly known as the Iridescent Snake, has a distinctive scalation pattern.
- The scales on the head are small, smooth, and arranged symmetrically.
- The dorsal scales are keeled (ridged down the center) and in 19 rows.
- The ventral scales are smooth and in 135-158 rows.
- The anal plate is divided.
- The subcaudal scales are paired, with the number of pairs ranging from 59 to 70.
Overall, the scalation of Blythia reticulata is fairly typical for a colubrid snake. The keeled dorsal scales and high number of ventral scales are common features among snakes in this family.
Appearance:
The Iridescent Snake is predominantly black in color, with varying shades of iridescent blue, green or purple along their dorsal surface. Their ventral surface is usually cream or yellowish in color. The eyes of the snake are large and have round pupils, and their tongue is red or pink and forked.
Natural History:
Blythia reticulata is primarily diurnal and feeds on small rodents, lizards, and other small vertebrates. They are known to be active climbers and are commonly found in trees and shrubs. These snakes are generally timid and non-aggressive, and will usually retreat when threatened.
Habitat:
The Iridescent Snake is found in a variety of habitats including forests, bamboo groves, and grasslands. They are commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, including India, Myanmar, and Thailand.
Behavior:
Blythia reticulata is a solitary species and usually found alone. They are non-venomous and are not considered a threat to humans. If threatened, they will usually hide or retreat rather than attack.
Reproduction:
Not much is known about the reproductive habits of Blythia reticulata. Females lay clutches of 6-10 eggs which hatch after an incubation period of about 2-3 months.
Location:
The Iridescent Snake is found primarily in Southeast Asia, including India, Myanmar, and Thailand.
Venomous or Non-venomous:
Blythia reticulata is a non-venomous species of snake and does not pose a significant threat to humans. They are generally considered harmless, although bites may cause minor pain and swelling.
The Iridescent Snake, Blythia reticulata, is a medium-sized, non-venomous species of snake found in Southeast Asia. They are primarily diurnal, arboreal, and feed on small rodents and other small vertebrates. They are generally non-aggressive and not considered a threat to humans.
