Brown's coral snake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Brown's coral snake |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Micrurus
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| Species: |
browni
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Micrurus browni, commonly known as Brown's coral snake, is a species of venomous snake in the family Elapidae. The species is native to Guatemala and southwestern Mexico. There are three recognized subspecies, including the nominate subspecies described here.
Contents
Etymology
The specific name, browni, is in honor of American scientific collector Wilmot W. Brown Jr..
Spanish common names
Common names for M. browni in Spanish include Serpiente-coralillo de Brown, coral, coral de Acapulco, coral de Antigua, coral (or coralillo) de canutos, and vibora de coral.
Description
Brown's coral snake can grow to 100 cm (39 in) in total length (including tail), but it is usually 50 cm (20 in) to 70 cm (28 in). It has smooth dorsal scales, a rounded head, and eyes with round pupils. Its color pattern is three-colored: broad red rings, separated by 10-27 black rings, each black ring bordered by two narrow yellow bands. The snout is black. There is usually a yellow band, across the top of the head, halfway back.
Geographic range
The geographic distribution of M. browni is limited to Quintana Roo in southwestern Mexico, and western Guatemala, including Sacatepequez. Previous reports for Honduras have been found to be incorrect.
Habitat
M. browni is mainly found in tropical deciduous forest, pine-oak forest, and cloud forest at elevations ranging from sea level up to 2,000 m (6,600 ft).
Behavior
Although little is known about the behavior of M. browni, like most other coral snakes it may be nocturnal, terrestrial and probably dwells in burrows, leaf litter, or under logs. While usually not aggressive, it will bite when molested or restrained.
Diet
M. browni feeds on small lizards, amphibians, invertebrates, and other snakes.
Reproduction
Like other members of the genus Micrurus, M. browni is oviparous and may lay a maximum of 15 eggs per clutch.
Venom
Little is known about the effects of M. browni venom. It may contain neurotoxin, which can cause neuromuscular dysfunction, as is the case with the venom of other coral snakes.
Subspecies
The following three subspecies of Micrurus browni are recognized as being valid.
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- Micrurus browni browni Schmidt & H.M. Smith, 1943
- Micrurus browni importunus Roze, 1967
- Micrurus browni taylori Schmidt & H.M. Smith, 1943
The subspecific name, taylori, is in honor of American herpetologist Edward Harrison Taylor.
