Micrelaps

Micrelaps is a special group of snakes known as a genus. These snakes are mildly venomous and have their venom fangs only on the back of their upper jaws, which is why they are called rear-fanged. There is only one family that includes these snakes, and it is called Micrelapidae.

These snakes live in Africa and the Middle East. Scientists have identified four different species within this group that are considered valid. Studying these snakes helps us understand more about the diverse life found in these regions and how they survive in their natural habitats.

Taxonomy

Until recently, scientists thought these snakes belonged to a group called Atractaspididae. But in 2023, a big study showed they should be in their own special group, named Micrelapidae. This makes Micrelapidae a new family of snakes from Africa and Asia.

Description

Snakes in the genus Micrelaps have some special features. Their upper jaw is very short with two small teeth and one large fang under the eye. Their head is small and blends into their neck, and they have tiny eyes with round or slightly oval pupils. The body shape is smooth and cylinder-like, and their tails are short. The scales on their backs are smooth and arranged in 15 rows along the middle of their bodies.

Species

*) Not including the nominate subspecies ^T) Type species