New Shieldtail Species Discovered In Siruvani Hills

A rare shieldtail snake species, Rhinophis siruvaniensis, has been formally identified from Kerala’s Western Ghats, underscoring the region’s exceptional biodiversity. The non-venomous burrowing snake was discovered through citizen science efforts and later confirmed by herpetologists after detailed morphological and genetic analysis. The finding highlights the scientific value of local observations and the ecological importance of lesser-known subterranean species.

Discovery Through Citizen Science

The species was first noticed in 2015 in Jellipara village, Kerala, when a local farmer and tourist guide encountered an unusual snake in a coffee plantation. Photographs and repeated sightings prompted consultation with naturalists and researchers associated with the Shieldtail Mapping Project. After years of study, the snake was formally described as a new species, recognising both local participation and systematic scientific validation in species discovery.

Taxonomy and Physical Characteristics

Rhinophis siruvaniensis belongs to the family Uropeltidae, a group of shieldtail snakes endemic to India and Sri Lanka. Named after the Siruvani Hills spanning Kerala and Tamil Nadu, the species is small, glossy, and non-venomous. It has a brownish-black body with distinct creamy white markings and a characteristic shield-like tail tip used for burrowing. Genetic studies show a clear mitochondrial DNA difference from its closest relative, Rhinophis melanoleucus, confirming its status as a distinct species.

Subterranean Lifestyle and Ecological Role

This shieldtail snake spends most of its life underground, inhabiting loose soil and leaf litter. It surfaces mainly during the monsoon, making encounters rare. The species feeds on small soil-dwelling organisms and plays a crucial role in soil aeration, contributing to healthy ecosystems. Its presence is considered an indicator of rich soil biodiversity. Being non-venomous, it poses no threat to humans and relies on camouflage and burrowing for protection.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Rhinophis siruvaniensis is a non-venomous shieldtail snake from the Western Ghats.
• The species is named after the Siruvani Hills of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
• It belongs to the Uropeltidae family, known for shield-shaped tail tips.
• Genetic variation separates it from Rhinophis melanoleucus.

Conservation Concerns and Habitat Threats

The species has been recorded mainly in coffee and spice plantations rather than protected forests. Its specialised burrowing lifestyle makes it highly sensitive to habitat disturbance. Deforestation, monoculture farming, and climate variability pose significant risks. Researchers stress that continued citizen science initiatives and habitat-sensitive land use are vital for documenting and conserving such cryptic species in the Western Ghats.