Shark Bay Sea Snake
Aipysurus pooleorum
A regionally endemic sea snake restricted to the seagrass and reef habitats of Shark Bay in Western Australia.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.6-0.9 m (2-3 ft)
- Range
- Shark Bay region, Western Australia
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Overview
The Shark Bay sea snake is a range-restricted species found only within the Shark Bay World Heritage Area of Western Australia. It occupies the seagrass meadows and shallow reef habitats that make this bay ecologically significant.
Its limited distribution makes it of particular conservation interest, especially given ongoing environmental changes affecting Shark Bay's seagrass ecosystems.
How to identify it
- Pale body coloration, often with faint banding
- Small head not distinct from the neck
- Compressed, paddle-shaped tail
- Moderate, relatively stout body build
- Distinguished from related Aipysurus species mainly by its restricted Shark Bay distribution
Habitat & range
Restricted to Shark Bay, Western Australia, where it occupies seagrass meadows, shallow reef patches, and sandy shoals within the bay's sheltered waters.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Forages among seagrass and reef structures for small fish and possibly invertebrates. Fully aquatic and live-bearing, giving birth to young in the water. Generally shy and avoids human contact when encountered by snorkelers or researchers.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Shark Bay sea snake dangerous?
It is venomous, but it is a shy, localized species that rarely interacts with people.
Where is it found?
Only within Shark Bay, Western Australia, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Why is its range so limited?
It appears to be a habitat specialist tied closely to Shark Bay's unique seagrass and reef ecosystems.
What does it eat?
Small fish found among seagrass beds and shallow reef habitats.
Shark Bay Sea Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Shark Bay Sea Snake.
