Viperine Sea Snake
Hydrophis stokesii
One of the largest and most heavily built sea snakes, with a viper-like thick body and disproportionately large head, capable of delivering a substantial venom yield.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 1.5-2.4 m (5-8 ft)
- Range
- Indo-Pacific coastal waters from the Persian Gulf to northern Australia
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Overview
The viperine sea snake, also known as Stokes' sea snake, is among the largest and most robustly built of all sea snakes, with a body girth and head shape reminiscent of terrestrial vipers, hence its common name. It ranges across much of the Indo-Pacific.
It possesses a comparatively large venom yield among sea snakes and a longer set of fangs than most relatives, making it one of the more medically significant sea snake species, though bites are uncommon since it is not aggressive by nature.
How to identify it
- Extremely thick, heavy-bodied build unlike the more slender bodies of most sea snakes
- Large, broad head, disproportionately large compared to the neck
- Pale gray to yellowish coloration with dark diamond-shaped or blotched markings along the back
- Paddle-shaped tail
- Adults can exceed 2 m and are notably bulky for their length
Habitat & range
Inhabits shallow coastal waters, river mouths, and muddy or sandy substrates. Ranges from the Persian Gulf and coasts of the Indian subcontinent through Southeast Asia to northern Australia.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Feeds on fish, including catfish and other bottom-dwelling species, using its large head and jaws to handle sizeable prey. Generally slow-moving and not aggressive. Reproduction is ovoviviparous, with live young born in the water.
Frequently asked questions
Why is it called the viperine sea snake?
Its thick body and large head resemble terrestrial vipers, though it is an unrelated elapid.
Is the viperine sea snake dangerous?
It has a relatively large venom yield among sea snakes, but it is not aggressive and bites are rare.
How big does it get?
It is one of the largest and heaviest-bodied sea snakes, with adults reaching over 2 meters.
Where is it found?
In coastal waters across the Indo-Pacific, from the Persian Gulf to northern Australia.
Viperine Sea Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Viperine Sea Snake.
