Calamaria garoensis

Calamaria garoensis Latest News

Recently, a team of researchers from multiple institutions has described a new species of burrowing reed snake from Meghalaya’s West Garo Hills district and named it as Calamaria garoensis.

About Calamaria garoensis

• It is a new species of burrowing reed snake.
• It is found mainly in Garo Hills of Meghalaya.
• It is currently known only from this region, indicating a potentially restricted distribution .
• Characteristics
  • It is characterised by smooth dorsal scales arranged in 13 rows, a short non-tapering tail with an obtuse tip, and a distinct broad median black stripe on the underside of the tail.
  • The body exhibits longitudinal striping along with a faint nuchal ring, distinguishing it from all known related species.

Key Facts about Reed Snakes

• They are small, slender, non-venomous snakes.
• Reed snakes of the genus Calamaria are small, secretive, and largely burrowing.
• Appearance: Typically brown, reddish, or blackish in color.
• Distribution: They are found in southern and southeastern Asia. 
• Habitat: They are mostly found in moist forests, leaf litter, under logs, stones, and soil.
• They are fossorial/semi-fossorial – spend most of their time underground or hidden in leaf litter.
• Diet: They eat small, soft-bodied invertebrates

Source: TH

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