Share to Facebook Share to Twitter Share to Linkedin Researchers have discovered a new species of krait, Bungarus sagittatus, in the mountains of western … [+] Thailand. It’s as beautiful as it is deadly. Aksornneam et al. (2024) Kraits are a highly venomous group of snakes found in Southeast Asia and China, extending as far west as Iran. They belong to the genus Bungarus within the elapid snake family (cobras, coral snakes, and their relatives), which is renowned for their deadly venoms and advanced venom delivery system (front fangs, venom glands and associated venom delivery musculature). Seventeen species of kraits were previously known to science, but a new species discovery, published in a 2024 issue of Zoosystematics and Evolution, brings this total up to eighteen. Meet the newest member of the krait snake group: Bungarus sagittatus. Aksornneam et al. (2024) The new species of krait (Bungarus sagittatus) was found in the Tenasserim Mountain Range in western Thailand. Here are a few of its defining characteristics according to the scientists who found it, a team led by Akrachai Aksornneam of Kasetsart University in Bangkok, Thailand: Similar to many other krait species, Bungarus sagittatus has a black back with white bands Its underbelly is solid white It has a black head and neck Judging from the specimens collected, the researchers estimate the size of adults to be up to six feet long One of the specimens collected was observed preying on a small lizard. The researchers suspect that its diet also consists of rodents, birds, amphibians and other reptiles. MORE FOR YOU Forget iOS 18 Millions Of iPhone Users Now Have RCS Messaging Microsoft Issues New Warning For 70% Of All Windows Users Samsung Issues Critical Update For Millions Of Galaxy Users It was in the mountains of western Thailand (shown here) where the new species of krait was … [+] discovered. The researchers highlight that this area is a stronghold for amphibians and reptiles, containing species from both Indochina and Sundaland. Aksornneam et al. (2024) Kraits are a fascinating snake group for a number of reasons. Here are five: Venom potency. Kraits possess some of the most potent venom among all snakes. Their venom contains neurotoxins, such as three-finger toxins, that can quickly incapacitate their prey, leading to respiratory failure and death. Renowned herpetologist Joe Slowinski tragically died from a krait bite in 2001. Nocturnal behavior. Many krait species are nocturnal, which adds to their mystique. They are skilled at hunting in the dark, relying on their keen sense of smell and specialized sense organs to locate prey. Unique coloration. Kraits often have striking coloration, with alternating bands of black and white or yellow. This distinctive pattern serves as a warning to potential predators, signaling their venomous capabilities. Cannibalistic tendencies. Some krait species exhibit cannibalistic behavior, consuming other kraits, including members of their own species. This behavior is rare among snakes and adds another layer of intrigue to their biology. Medical importance. Despite their dangerous reputation, krait venom contains compounds that are being studied for their potential medicinal properties. Here are a few other species of kraits worth knowing about. 1. Many-Banded Krait (The Most Venomous Krait) The many-banded krait mostly inhabits marshy areas in southern China and Southeast Asia. getty All kraits are deadly, but the most venomous species is typically considered to be Bungarus multicinctus, commonly known as the many-banded krait. This species is found in various parts of Asia, including China, Taiwan and Vietnam. The venom of the many-banded krait is highly potent, containing neurotoxins that can quickly incapacitate prey and cause respiratory failure in humans if bitten. It is considered one of the most venomous snakes in the world. While other krait species, such as the Malayan krait (Bungarus candidus) and the common krait (Bungarus caeruleus), also have highly toxic venoms, the many-banded krait is often regarded as having the most toxic venom within the genus Bungarus. 2. Red-Headed Krait (The Biggest Krait) This highly venomous elapid snake, Bungarus flaviceps, has the notorious distinction of primarily … [+] feeding on other snakes. getty The largest species of krait is generally considered to be Bungarus flaviceps, commonly known as the red-headed krait. This species is native to Southeast Asia, including countries like Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia. Red-headed kraits can reach lengths of up to seven feet, making them the longest among the kraits. They have distinctive red heads, with bodies that are typically gray or bluish-black in color. They are highly venomous and should be treated with extreme caution if encountered. 3. Common Krait (The Krait That Bites The Most Humans) The common krait causes more medically significant snake bites in India than any other snake, except … [+] for the Russell’s viper. getty The species of krait that bites the most humans is Bungarus caeruleus, known as the common krait. This species is found in South Asia, particularly in the countries of India, Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh. The common krait is responsible for a significant number of snakebite incidents in its range, often occurring at night when the snake is active. Its venom contains potent neurotoxins that can cause paralysis and respiratory failure, leading to fatalities if left untreated. Despite its relatively shy nature, encounters with humans can occur, especially in rural areas where people may come into close contact with these snakes. Scott Travers Following Editorial Standards Print Reprints & Permissions
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