New guinea taipan
A species of Taipans, Also known as Coastal taipan Scientific name : Oxyuranus scutellatus Genus : Taipans
New guinea taipan, A species of Taipans
Also known as:
Coastal taipan
Scientific name: Oxyuranus scutellatus
Genus: Taipans
Content
Description General Info
Photo By christopherburwell , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The coastal taipan (Oxyuranus scutellatus), or common taipan, is a species of large, highly venomous snake of the family Elapidae. It is native to the coastal regions of northern and eastern Australia and the island of New Guinea. According to most toxicological studies, this species is the third-most venomous land snake in the world based on its murine LD50.
General Info
Lifespan
15-20 years
Appearance
New guinea taipan is a significantly large, slender snake with smooth, polished scales. Most individuals exhibit a strikingly vibrant shade of green, with intricate variants stretching into the yellow spectrum. Its ventral surface ranges from cream to yellow. It lacks any distinctive markings, except for a noticeable rusty-red tail tip at the vent. There is no significant differentiation in appearance due to age, gender, or subspecies.
Behavior
New guinea taipan exhibits primarily nocturnal, solitary behavior, and is typically aggressive and territorial. This species evinces remarkable speed and precision when striking, indicative of its predatory nature. Its survival is enhanced by its ability to camouflage in its arid natural habitat. Its mating rituals involve fascinating physical displays.
Population
Stable
Photo By christopherburwell , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Elapids Genus
Taipans Species
New guinea taipan