Craspedocephalus borneensis explained

Craspedocephalus borneensis, commonly known as the Bornean pit viper,[1] is a venomous pit viper species endemic to the island of Borneo. No subspecies are currently recognized.

Description

Scalation includes 19–21 rows of dorsal scales at midbody, 152–180 ventral scales, undivided anal scale, 45–58 divided subcaudal scales, and 8–11 supralabial scales.[1]

Its coloration varies. Individuals may be brown with darker brown saddles, or light brown with a few darker markings, or even bright yellow with darker markings.

Adults may attain 83cm (33inches) in snout-vent length (SVL).[2]

Geographic range

Craspedocephalus borneensis is found on the island of Borneo (Brunei, Kalimantan, Sabah, Sarawak) as well as in the Natuna Islands.

The type locality given is "Sarawack" (= Sarawak, Borneo).

Habitat

It is found in forests below an altitude of 1130m (3,710feet). Even though the tail is prehensile, adults are usually on the forest floor. Juveniles may be in low vegetation.[2]

Diet

Craspedocephalus borneensis preys upon small rodents and small birds.

Reproduction

Whether this species of Craspedocephalus lays eggs or bears live young is as yet unknown.[2]

Further reading

Notes and References

  1. Gumprecht A, Tillack F, Orlov NL, Captain A, Ryabov S. 2004. Asian Pit vipers. GeitjeBooks Berlin. 1st Edition. 368 pp. .
  2. Das, Indraneil. 2006. A Photographic Guide to Snakes and Other Reptiles of Borneo. Ralph Curtis Books. Sanibel Island, Florida. 144 pp. . (Trimeresurus borneensis, p. 57.)