| Pygmy copperhead | |
|---|---|
| |
Scientific classification 
| |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Reptilia |
| Order: | Squamata |
| Suborder: | Serpentes |
| Family: | Elapidae |
| Genus: | Austrelaps |
| Species: | A. labialis
|
| Binomial name | |
| Austrelaps labialis (Jan, 1859)
| |
| |
| Distribution (in green; click to enlarge) | |
| Synonyms | |
|
Alecto labialis Jan, 1859 | |
The pygmy copperhead (Austrelaps labialis) is an Australian venomous elapid snake species[1][2] found on Kangaroo Island and the Fleurieu Peninsula in South Australia.[3] It is from the Austrelaps genus along with two other species of copperhead, the Highland and Lowland copperhead snakes.
Adult pygmy copperhead snakes grow to an average of 80 cm (31 in)[4] making it the smallest of Australian copperheads. It preys on small reptiles and frogs.[5] Their bite is considered possibly lethal[6] but they are unlikely to attack unless stepped on or purposely provoked.[3]
They are not considered to be in need of conservation.
- ^ a b Fenner, A.; Hutchinson, M.; McDonald, P.; Robertson, P. (2018). "Austrelaps labialis". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2018: e.T2417A83452129. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2018-1.RLTS.T2417A83452129.en. Retrieved 20 November 2021.
- ^ Cite error: The named reference
RDBwas invoked but never defined (see the help page). - ^ a b Cermak, Michael (2008). Spectacular Snakes of Australia. doi:10.1071/9780643101371. ISBN 9780643101371.
- ^ Cogger, Harold (2014). Reptiles and Amphibians of Australia. doi:10.1071/9780643109773. ISBN 9780643109773.
- ^ Mirtschin, Peter; Rasmussen, Arne; Weinstein, Scott (2017). Australia's Dangerous Snakes. doi:10.1071/9780643106741. ISBN 9780643106741.
- ^ Marcon, Francesca; Nicholson, Graham M. (October 2011). "Identification of presynaptic neurotoxin complexes in the venoms of three Australian copperheads (Austrelaps spp.) and the efficacy of tiger snake antivenom to prevent or reverse neurotoxicity". Toxicon. 58 (5): 439–452. doi:10.1016/j.toxicon.2011.08.003. hdl:10453/18515. ISSN 0041-0101. PMID 21854797.