New Wolf Snake Discovered In Cambodia

Featured Research

June 20, 2014

The eighth new snake to be discovered in the Cardamom Mountains of Phnom Penh, Lycodon zoosvictoriae has a unique coloration that allows it to blend in seamlessly with its environment.

AsianScientist (Jun 20, 2014) – A distinctive new wolf snake species discovered in Cambodia has been named in honour of Zoos Victoria, recognising their support provided to Fauna & Flora International’s (FFI) studies in the Cardamom Mountains over the last few years.

The wolf snake is the latest species to be discovered in Cambodia’s diverse Cardamom Mountains and has been named Lycodon zoosvictoriae. Wolf snakes get their name as they have large teeth in both jaws. Scientists believe the peculiar and unique coloration has helped the snake remain overlooked, despite concerted survey efforts in the area.

Cambodian herpetologist Neang Thy, FFI’s research adviser in Phnom Penh, who both discovered and described the new species said, “The support FFI received from Zoos Victoria has helped build the capacity of Cambodian researchers and conservationists and has greatly improved understanding of Cambodia’s reptiles and amphibians.

“Naming this species in honour of Zoos Victoria will ensure a memorable and historical record of the support they’ve given FFI, both in discoveries and conservation of the Cardamoms,” Thy added.

Lycodon zoosvictoriae is the eighth new snake to be found in the Cardamom Mountains since survey work began in 2000, and once again shows how much remains to be discovered in this region of Cambodia.

The article can be found at: Neang et al. (2014) A new species of wolf snake (Colubridae:Lycodon Fitzinger, 1826) from Phnom Samkos Wildlife Sanctuary, Cardamom Mountains, southwest Cambodia.

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Source: Zoos Victoria.

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