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Eastern pygmy mulga snake

Eastern pygmy mulga snake (Pseudechis pailsei)
Mt Isa, Queensland
Photo © Stewart Macdonald
Pseudechis pailsei - (Hoser, 1998)
Pronunciation  sue-DECK-iss   PAY-uls-ee
Etymology  Pseudechis: 'false Echis' - Echis is a genus of adders.
pailsei: "after Victorian reptile breeder Roy Pails."
Other names  Pailsus pailsei 
 
Total length
Species avg: 150 cm
Reproduction
Oviparous
Clutch size
Length and clutch size information comes from a variety of sources, but primarily from Shine (1991) and Cogger (2000).
Description Distribution Natural history Conservation Further information More photos

Description

Species status uncertain (see Taxonomic notes below). Colouration varies from grey to tan to reddish-brown. Pattern largely absent on body, although body scales are often darker posteriorly, creating a subtle reticulated pattern. The neck and head are typically patterned with several dark lines and blotches, especially along sutures between head scales.

Similar species

Differs from mulga snake (Pseudechis australis) in its smaller adult size and narrower head. The obvious pattern of dark lines and blotches on the head is typically absent in P. australis except on juveniles, which might possess dark lines on the head.
Very similar to Western pygmy mulga snake (Pseudechis weigeli), with which it may be conspecific. No reliable differences are known; however, P. weigeli often has darker scale margins, giving it a more obvious reticulated pattern.

Taxonomic notes

Status as a valid species remains uncertain. Genetic data indicates that this species is moderately divergent from Pseudechis weigeli. Because of its now widespread recognition, we have included P. pailsei as a distinct species pending more in-depth taxonomic work.

Scale count information


Dorsal scales at midbody   17
Ventrals   210 to 230 with a divided anal scale
Subcaudals   50 to 80 and are single anteriorly-divided posteriorly
Other scale information  
Danger rating   Dangerously venomous.
Note: even a bite from a 'virtually harmless' or non-venomous reptile can result in serious complications. Play it safe and don't get bitten by anything.
Notes and disclaimer
This information may not be complete. While all care is taken to ensure the accuracy of the information in this page, primary sources should always be consulted for definitive information. Animals have an endearing habit of disobeying the rules, so the information on this page should be interpreted with a degree of flexibility.
The author and site operator accepts no responsibility for any losses or damages incurred through using this web site or the information contained herein. Don't get bitten by anything!
This page may be cited as:
  Pseudechis pailsei at the Australian Reptile Online Database. Last updated 2019-05-03 16:21:32.
  Retrieved from http://arod.com.au/arod/?species=Pseudechis+pailsei on the 28th of March, 2024.
Before citing information contained in AROD, please read our Citing AROD page.

Copyright notice
This page, its content and layout are copyright © 2007-2024 Stewart Macdonald / Ug Media, unless otherwise stated.
All photographs in The Australian Reptile Online Database are © the photographer and may not be reproduced in any form without the express written consent of the photographer.
No part of The Australian Reptile Online Database may be reproduced without written permission from Stewart Macdonald.
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