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False coral
A species of Amazon false coral snake, Also known as Forest flame snake Scientific name : Oxyrhopus petolarius Genus : Amazon false coral snake
False coral, A species of Amazon false coral snake
Also known as:
Forest flame snake
Scientific name: Oxyrhopus petolarius
Genus: Amazon false coral snake
Content
Description General Info
![False coral (Oxyrhopus petolarius)](/wiki-image/1080/152526851502243841.jpeg)
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Description
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Oxyrhopus petola, commonly known as the false coral or calico snake, is a species of colubrid snake endemic to South America. According to Savage (2011) the correct scientific name should be Oxyrhopus petolarius.
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General Info
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Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
False coral regularly consumes a variety of small vertebrates primarily including lizards and amphibians. Occasionally, they may also supplement their diet with invertebrates such as arachnids.
Appearance
False coral is a medium-sized snake, generally 1 to 1.5 meter in length, featuring a slender and smooth body. Its skin has an intriguing pattern: black bands interspersed with red and yellow blotches, creating a dazzling contrast. Interestingly, it exhibits sexual dichromatism, with male snakes darker and more vibrantly colored than their female counterparts.
Behavior
False coral is a predominantly nocturnal species, known for its burrowing and secretive behavior. Its foraging activity is characterized by active locomotion, feeding primarily on invertebrates. False coral exhibits a solitary lifestyle, rarely seen in groups except during mating seasons. Noted for its defensive behaviors, false coral mimics venomous species to deter predators, suggesting a complex survival strategy in its environment.
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Scientific Classification
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Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Dipsadinae Genus
Amazon false coral snake Species
False coral