Stokes's Sea Snake

Stokes's Sea Snake is among the heaviest-bodied of all sea snakes, with a girth that can exceed that of many terrestrial venomous snakes despite its moderate length. It inhabits coastal and reef waters across the tropical Indo-Pacific.

Its stout build and large fangs allow it to subdue armored or spiny prey such as catfish, and it possesses a comparatively large venom yield among sea snakes.

• Thick, heavily built body disproportionate to its length
• Small head relative to body size, with reduced neck constriction
• Coloration typically pale gray or yellowish with darker, sometimes indistinct bands
• Paddle-shaped tail for swimming
• Distinguished from other sea snakes by its unusually stout, muscular build

Found in coastal waters, river mouths, and reef flats across the tropical Indo-Pacific, including northern Australia, Southeast Asia, and the Arabian Gulf, often near muddy or estuarine bottoms.

Fully aquatic, foraging along the seafloor for catfish, eels, and other bottom-dwelling fish. Its robust jaws and fangs allow it to handle spiny prey. Gives birth to live young at sea. Generally sluggish and non-aggressive unless disturbed.