The St. John’s Keelback, also known as Xenochrophis sanctijohannis, is a non-venomous species of snake. It does not produce any venom and is not considered to be dangerous to humans.
Description:
The St. John’s Keelback is a medium-sized species of snake, with an average length of around 60-80 cm (24-32 inches). It has a slender, cylindrical body shape and a pointed head. The eyes are large and round, with round pupils.
Scalation:
The scales of the St. John’s Keelback are smooth and shiny. The dorsal scales are arranged in 15 rows, and there are 144-167 ventral scales and 57-73 subcaudal scales. The anal scale is divided, and there are 8 supralabials and 10-11 infralabials.
The St. John’s Keelback, Amphiesma stolatum, has the following scalation:
- Dorsal scales: 17 rows at mid-body, keeled
- Ventral scales: Smooth and undivided
- Anal scale: Single
- Subcaudal scales: Divided
The scales of Amphiesma stolatum are keeled, which gives them a distinct texture.
Appearance:
The St. John’s Keelback has a distinctive appearance, with a brown or olive color on its back and sides, with a series of darker crossbars or spots. The belly is yellow or cream-colored. The scales are smooth and shiny, giving the snake a sleek appearance.
Natural History:
The St. John’s Keelback is primarily active during the day and feeds on small prey such as fish, frogs, and small rodents. It is known for its aquatic nature and is often found in or near water sources.
Habitat:
The St. John’s Keelback is found in a variety of habitats throughout Southeast Asia, including wetlands, rice fields, and agricultural areas. It is most commonly found near water sources, such as ponds, streams, and marshes.
Behavior:
The St. John’s Keelback is a relatively docile species of snake and is not aggressive towards humans. It will usually try to escape when confronted but may become defensive and try to bite if it feels threatened. This species is often seen swimming in water sources or basking in the sun on rocks or logs.
Reproduction:
Little is known about the reproductive biology of the St. John’s Keelback, but it is believed to be oviparous, laying eggs rather than giving birth to live young.
Location and Conservation:
The St. John’s Keelback is found in parts of Southeast Asia, including India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. 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 St. John’s Keelback is a unique and interesting species found in Southeast Asia. Its distinctive appearance and behavior make it a fascinating creature to study, and its non-venomous nature makes it a valuable part of the local ecosystem. The protection of its habitat is crucial for the conservation of this species and the maintenance of biodiversity in the region.
