Water Coral Snake
Micrurus surinamensis
An unusually aquatic coral snake of the Amazon Basin, bearing classic red-black-yellow banding, but rarely encountered due to its semi-aquatic habits.
- Adult length
- 0.7-1.1 m (2.3-3.6 ft)
- Range
- Amazon Basin and the Guianas
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Overview
The Water Coral Snake is one of the few true coral snakes adapted to a semi-aquatic lifestyle, found in rivers, streams, and flooded forest throughout the Amazon Basin and the Guianas. It retains the classic vivid banding of the genus Micrurus.
As an elapid, it preys mainly on fish, and encounters with humans are rare given its secretive, aquatic habits.
How to identify it
- Vivid banding of red, black, and yellow rings encircling the body in the classic coral snake pattern
- Smooth, glossy scales
- Small head barely distinct from the neck, round pupils
- Somewhat flattened tail adapted for swimming
- Distinguished from terrestrial coral snakes by its more aquatic build and habitat association
Habitat & range
Strongly associated with water, inhabiting rivers, streams, oxbow lakes, and flooded forest throughout the Amazon Basin and the Guianas, from lowland to moderate elevations.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily aquatic and nocturnal, foraging in water for fish, its main prey. Rarely encountered on land. Secretive, avoiding confrontation when possible. Egg-laying species.
Frequently asked questions
What makes it unusual among coral snakes?
It is one of the few coral snake species strongly adapted to an aquatic lifestyle, feeding mainly on fish.
Where does it live?
Rivers, streams, and flooded forest throughout the Amazon Basin and the Guianas.
What does it eat?
Primarily fish.
Water Coral Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Water Coral Snake.
