DENDROPHIS (TREE SNAKE)

Contents hide

1) Introduction

2) Classification of Dendrophis (Tree Snake)

3) Geographical distribution

4) Habit and habitat

5) General Characteristics of Dendrophis (Tree Snake)

6) Ecological Importance

7) Conservation Status

8) Special features

9) Identification

Introduction

The genus Dendrophis, commonly known as tree snakes or bronzebacks, includes non-venomous, arboreal snakes found in Southeast Asia and parts of South Asia. Known for their slender bodies and remarkable agility, Dendrophis snakes are adept climbers that inhabit forests, plantations, and gardens. They play an essential role in their ecosystems by regulating populations of small animals and insects, contributing to biodiversity maintenance.

Classification of Dendrophis (Tree Snake)

Phylum :- Chordata (Dorsal tubular nerve cord, notochord and gill-slits present.)
Group :- Craniata (Definite head, Cranium with brain present.)
Sub phylum :- Vertebrata (Vertebral column present.)
Division :- Gnathostomata (Jaws and paired appendages present.)
Super Class :- Tetrapoda (Paired limbs, lungs, cornified skin and bony skeleton.)
Class :- Reptilia (Scaly vertebrates. Right and left aortic arches present. Single condyle. Pulmonary respiration. Embryo with amnion and allantois.)
Sub Class :- Diapsida (Skull with two temporal openings separated by post-orbital and squamosal.)
Order :- Squamata (Lizards and snakes with horny epidermal scales or shields. Quadrate bone movable. Vertebrae procoelous. Anal opening transverse.. Vertebrae amphicentrous.)
Sub-order :- Ophidia (Snakes. Limbs, feet, ear openings sternum and urinary bladder absent. Mandibles jointed anteriorly by ligament. Tongue slender, bifid and protrusible. Left lung reduced.)
Family :- Colubridae (Facial bones movable. No fang.)
Genus :- Dendrophis

Geographical distribution

It is found in Asia, South America and Australia.

Habit and habitat

It is adapted for arboreal life. It lives on trees and feeds on frogs. Diurnal and oviparous.

General Characteristics of Dendrophis (Tree Snake)

Dendrophis, a harmless and non-poisonous snake.
Commonly called as tree snake.
Snake is elongated and cylindrical with pointed tail measuring about 2 meters in length and having yellow stripes. Body divided into head, neck, trunk and tail. Head contains mouth and eyes.
Head is large and covered by large plate-like keeled shields forming 13 or 15 rows.
Scales of vertebral row enlarged. Belly scales plate-like while side scales are small.
Ventrals have a pair of suture-like lateral keel and notch on sides which helps in climbing.
Fangs absent but teeth present.
Eyes covered with transparent and fused membrane. Tympanic membrane absent.

Ecological Importance

Pest Control: Dendrophis snakes primarily feed on small vertebrates, including lizards, frogs, and birds, controlling their populations and preventing overpopulation.
Insect Control: By preying on various insects, these snakes contribute to pest control in both natural and agricultural environments.
Prey for Larger Predators: Tree snakes are prey for birds of prey, mammals, and larger snakes, forming a crucial link in the food web.
Biodiversity Indicator: The presence of Dendrophis species in an area often reflects a healthy and balanced forest ecosystem.

Conservation Status

Conservation Status: Most Dendrophis species are not extensively studied for conservation status but are generally considered to be of Least Concern due to their wide distribution.
Threats:
- Habitat destruction from deforestation and urban expansion.
- Persecution due to fear and lack of awareness about their non-venomous nature.
- Pesticides and pollution affecting their prey and habitats.
Conservation Measures:
- Preservation of forest habitats and reduction of deforestation.
- Public education to promote coexistence with non-venomous snakes.
- Research to better understand the population dynamics of Dendrophis species.

Special features

Arboreal Lifestyle: Dendrophis snakes are excellent climbers, using their slender, elongated bodies to navigate trees and shrubs.
Distinctive Appearance: They exhibit a shiny, bronze-colored back with a contrasting ventral side, aiding in camouflage among tree branches.
Fast and Agile: Known for their speed and precision, tree snakes can quickly dart through foliage to catch prey.
Non-Venomous: Harmless to humans, these snakes rely on constriction or swift strikes to subdue their prey.
Wide Habitat Range: While primarily arboreal, they can adapt to ground-level environments in search of food or during specific climatic conditions