Langaha pseudoalluaudi
Species of reptile
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Langaha pseudoalluaudi, also known as the Ambilobe leaf-nosed snake, is one of three species within the genus Langaha. The Ambilobe leaf-nosed snake is the least common and least understood within the genus. They are known for having a leaf-like nasal protrusion and being extremely cryptic.
| Langaha pseudoalluaudi | |
|---|---|
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Reptilia |
| Order: | Squamata |
| Suborder: | Serpentes |
| Family: | Pseudoxyrhophiidae |
| Genus: | Langaha |
| Species: | L. pseudoalluaudi |
| Binomial name | |
| Langaha pseudoalluaudi Domergue, 1988 | |
Description
Langaha pseudoalluaudi is a non-venomous, relatively large, arboreal snake with a unique nasal appendage protruding from their nose.[1] They are a grey/brown/tan color with lighter colored banding along the whole body.[1][2][3] From one account, the total length for a female was 1260mm (4.13 ft) and the total length for a male was 1275mm (4.18 ft).[4]
The unique nasal appendage acts as camouflage and causes the snakes' head to look like a twig or rotten stump when viewed from the front.[2] The supraocular scales are enlarged and horn-like, adding to the complexity of their camouflage.[1][2] Prey items are likely not able to distinguish L. pseudoalluaudi from twigs when they are approached by the snake.[2]
Ambilobe leaf-nosed Snakes exhibit sexual dimorphism between males and females, particularly on the nasal protrusion. Females have a broader and flatter protrusion that is leaf-like in shape while males have a pointed spear-like protrusion.[2]
Distribution and habitat
Langaha pseudoalluaudi is regionally endemic to northwestern Madagascar, near the Ambilobe region.[1][2][4][5] Due to few encounters, the extent of the range is not well understood.
Ambilobe leaf-nosed snakes have been observed in and around dry deciduous forests and rainforests.[2][4] Specimens that have been found were on shrubby plants approximately 2–3 meters off the ground on the edge of forests, or crossing a path.[5][2] Scientists noted that the habitats were relatively open and at an altitude between 80–250 meters.[5][2]
Diet
There are no observations about what what L. pseudoalluaudi predates upon. However, a closely related snake species, Langaha madagascariensis, has been observed eating lizards and small mice.[3] It is hypothesized that L. pseudoalluadi would have a similar diet.[3]