Archive · 7 Aug 2025
Mizoram University Researchers Discover New Snake Species
Scientists from Mizoram University found a new type of snake called 'Smithophis laptofasciatus'.
They figured this out by looking closely at the snake's body parts and DNA.
This new snake is different enough from others to be considered a separate species.
The information was shared in a scientific journal.
The snake isn't poisonous, eats worms, and likes to live in thick forests.
This finding is important for understanding the different kinds of animals in the world.
Researchers from Mizoram University discovered a new snake species, 'Smithophis laptofasciatus'.
The discovery was made after studying scales, features, and DNA during expeditions.
The findings were published in the journal 'Taprobanica' on August 5.
The new species differs from 'Smithophis bicolour' by 11.5% in DNA and morphology.
The snake is non-venomous, feeds on worms, and lives in dense forests.
- Who
- Researchers from the Zoology Department of Mizoram University.
- What
- Discovery of a new snake species named 'Smithophis laptofasciatus'.
- When
- Findings published on August 5 in the journal 'Taprobanica'.
- Where
- Discovered in the Northeast India region, specifically Mizoram.
- Why
- Through herpetological expeditions and study of scales, morphological features, and DNA.
- Species Name
- Smithophis laptofasciatus
- Discovery Location
- Mizoram, India
- Researcher Affiliation
- Zoology Department, Mizoram University
- Published In
- Taprobanica (Journal of Asian Biodiversity)
- Distinguishing Feature
- Differs from 'Smithophis bicolour' by 11.5% in DNA/morphology
- Diet
- Worms
- Toxicity
- Non-venomous