Slender-Necked Sea Snake
Hydrophis coggeri
A slender sea snake with a notably thin neck relative to its body, found in coral reef and coastal waters of the Coral Sea region.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.9-1.3 m (3-4.3 ft)
- Range
- Coastal waters of northeastern Australia and the Coral Sea
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Overview
The slender-necked sea snake is a reef-associated marine elapid found in the waters off northeastern Australia and the wider Coral Sea. Its common name reflects its notably thin neck compared to a thicker mid-body.
It is venomous, employing its bite to capture small fish, but poses minimal risk to humans, being a generally retiring reef-dwelling species.
How to identify it
- Body noticeably thicker at mid-length than at the neck, giving a tapered, slender-necked profile
- Pale gray to olive coloration, sometimes with faint darker banding
- Small head
- Paddle-shaped tail
- Adults typically 0.9-1.3 m
Habitat & range
Inhabits coral reef and coastal waters, generally in clearer offshore waters compared to some estuarine sea snake species. Found off northeastern Australia and within the Coral Sea.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Forages among reef structures for small fish. Reproduction is ovoviviparous, with live young born at sea.
Frequently asked questions
Why is it called the slender-necked sea snake?
Because its neck is noticeably thinner than its thicker mid-body, giving it a tapered profile.
Is it venomous?
Yes, though it is a retiring reef species that rarely poses a risk to humans.
Where does it live?
In coral reef and coastal waters of northeastern Australia and the Coral Sea.
What does it eat?
Small fish found among reef habitats.
Slender-Necked Sea Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Slender-Necked Sea Snake.
