Malayan pit viper
A species of Calloselasma Scientific name : Calloselasma rhodostoma Genus : Calloselasma
Malayan pit viper, A species of Calloselasma
Scientific name: Calloselasma rhodostoma
Genus: Calloselasma
Content
Description General Info
Photo By rahmat_mukorobin , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Calloselasma is a monotypic genus created for a venomous pit viper species, C. rhodostoma, which is endemic to Southeast Asia from Thailand to northern Malaysia and on the island of Java. No subspecies are currently recognized.
General Info
Lifespan
15-20 years
Diet
Malayan pit viper is a specialized predator, with a diet primarily composed of small rodents. It employs its venomous bite to subdue prey, ensuring successful hunting endeavors.
Appearance
Malayan pit viper is a medium-sized venomous snake, with a sturdy, cylindrical body covered in smooth, keeled scales. It displays a distinctive reddish-brown coloration, often with faint cross-bands. Notable attributes include its large triangular head, distinguishable from the neck, and its short, stubby tail. There are no significant variations in appearance with age, gender, or subspecies.
Behavior
Malayan pit viper is a predominantly solitary, nocturnal species. Its predatory behavior involves a sit-and-wait strategy, poised motionless until striking at unsuspecting prey. Interaction among individuals is mainly territorial, with raised heads and inflated bodies indicating hostile intent. It notably demonstrates heat-sensing capability adapted for nocturnal hunting.
Population
Stable
Photo By rahmat_mukorobin , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Vipers Genus
Calloselasma Species
Malayan pit viper