Anomalous Sea Snake
Hydrophis anomalus
A sea snake named for its unusual combination of scale and morphological traits, found in coastal waters of the northern Indian Ocean.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.8-1.1 m (2.6-3.6 ft)
- Range
- Coastal waters of the northern Indian Ocean, including India and Bangladesh
Found a snake like this?
Identify any snake from a photo, free.
Overview
The anomalous sea snake earns its common name from a combination of scale and anatomical features that set it apart from typical patterns seen in related Hydrophis species. It inhabits coastal waters of the northern Indian Ocean, including areas off India and Bangladesh.
It remains a relatively obscure species in the broader sea snake literature, with much of its documented occurrence coming from regional fisheries bycatch surveys.
How to identify it
- Body coloration typically pale with irregular or unusual banding compared to close relatives
- Small head not clearly distinct from the neck
- Smooth scales and a laterally compressed, paddle-shaped tail
- Slender to moderately built body
- Unusual scale arrangement is the basis for its distinguishing 'anomalous' classification
Habitat & range
Found in shallow coastal waters of the northern Indian Ocean, including areas off the coasts of India and Bangladesh, generally over soft sediment substrates.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Presumed to feed on small fish, consistent with related sea snakes, hunting along coastal seafloor habitats. Fully aquatic and live-bearing, with reproduction occurring at sea.
Frequently asked questions
Is the anomalous sea snake dangerous?
It is venomous, but as with most sea snakes it avoids human contact and bites are rare.
Where does it live?
In coastal waters of the northern Indian Ocean, including off India and Bangladesh.
Why is it called 'anomalous'?
Its name reflects an unusual combination of scale and morphological traits compared to closely related species.
What does it eat?
Likely small fish, consistent with the diet of related coastal Hydrophis sea snakes.
Anomalous Sea Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Anomalous Sea Snake.
