Dusky Sea Snake
Aipysurus fuscus
A small, dark-colored sea snake with a restricted range in Western Australian reef waters, of conservation concern due to sharp historical population declines.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.7-1.0 m (2.3-3.3 ft)
- Range
- Reef waters of Western Australia, including Ashmore and Hibernia Reefs
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Overview
The dusky sea snake is a small, relatively uniform dark-colored species found in a limited area of coral reef habitat off northwestern Australia. Its populations, historically concentrated at Ashmore and Hibernia Reefs, have declined significantly and it is considered of conservation concern.
It is venomous, as with all sea snakes, using its bite to subdue small reef fish, and poses negligible risk to humans given its rarity and remote habitat.
How to identify it
- Small, slender to moderately stout body
- Dark brown to blackish or dusky gray coloration, often relatively uniform with little contrasting pattern
- Small head, not distinct from the neck
- Paddle-shaped tail
- Adults typically under 1 m
Habitat & range
Restricted to shallow coral reef and reef flat habitats in northwestern Australia, historically most associated with Ashmore Reef and Hibernia Reef in the Timor Sea.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Forages among reef structure for small fish. Reproduction is ovoviviparous, producing small litters of live young. Populations have shown marked declines at some historical sites, and the species remains poorly studied due to its rarity.
Frequently asked questions
Is the dusky sea snake rare?
Yes, it has a very restricted range and has undergone significant population declines at known reef sites.
How can you identify the dusky sea snake?
By its small size and relatively uniform dark brown to dusky gray coloration.
Where is it found?
In coral reef habitats of northwestern Australia, particularly Ashmore and Hibernia Reefs.
Is it dangerous to people?
It is venomous but very rarely encountered by humans.
Dusky Sea Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Dusky Sea Snake.
