Identification:
Body length approximately 800 mm. Head slightly flattened, distinct from the neck; snout broad and short. Possesses one cheek plate. Pupil is a vertical slit. 2+3 temporal plates. Upper lip with 6 plates, lower lip with 9 plates. Body scales in 17 rows, smooth. Subcaudal plates arranged in two rows, with some near the vent arranged in a single row. On the head, two large black stripes run lengthwise, symmetrical across a narrow, pinkish-white line that is narrow in the front and widens towards the back. Dorsum is grayish-black with horizontal pinkish-white stripes. Ventral side is yellowish-green with some small bright spots.
Biology and Ecology:
This snake inhabits forests and mountainous areas, observed up to an altitude of 1,000m.
Distribution:
- In Vietnam: Cao Bằng (Cao Bằng), Bắc Kạn (Ngân Sơn), Vĩnh Phúc (Tam Đảo), Lạng Sơn.
- Globally: Northern Myanmar, Southern China.
Value:
A venomous snake with scientific and aesthetic value. It produces both neurotoxic and cytotoxic venom, making it highly dangerous to humans.
Conservation Status:
The population in the wild is very small. The estimated area of distribution is below 20,000 km², with habitat size ranging from 500-2,000 km², and severely fragmented, comprising only three populations.
Red List Category:
VU B1 (Vulnerable)
Conservation Measures:
Prohibit hunting and trading in areas where this species is distributed. Implement captive breeding programs at zoos by collecting a few breeding pairs for research.