Rare Albino Checkered Keelback Discovery at Assam State Zoo

The recording of a juvenile albino checkered keelback snake at the Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden in Guwahati has opened a fresh ecological window into reptile colour anomalies in the Northeast. The rare genetic condition, seldom observed in wild snakes, significantly enhances the state’s reptilian biodiversity records.

First Albino Checkered Keelback Recorded in Guwahati

Researchers documented the albino checkered keelback, scientifically known as Fowlea piscator, within the zoo premises, marking the first such report from the city. The snake, a juvenile measuring about 290mm, was spotted by a team of herpetologists and forest officials during routine observation. Their findings have now been published in the international journal ‘Reptiles and Amphibians’, placing Assam among a limited set of locations where hypopigmentation in this species has been formally recorded.

Genetic Basis and Visible Traits of Albinism

The snake exhibited classic signs of albinism, a genetic anomaly that leads to the absence of melanin. This resulted in pale yellow body colouration and distinctive red eyes, sharply contrasting with the typical dark, chequered pattern of normal checkered keelbacks. Experts emphasised that albinism is different from leucism, another pigment disorder in which the animal may appear pale but usually retains normal eye colour.

Conservation Handling and Scientific Significance

Following confirmation of its identity through detailed examination of body pattern and scale arrangement, the specimen was carefully monitored for several days. After study, it was released into a protected forest habitat, minimising stress and disturbance. Researchers noted that comparable albino individuals of this species have previously been reported from Nepal and other parts of India, making the Guwahati specimen an important addition to regional and global reptile records.

Exam Oriented Facts

• The albino snake belongs to the species Fowlea piscator, commonly known as the checkered keelback.
• Albinism is caused by the absence of melanin, leading to pale skin and red eyes.
• The documented juvenile measured around 290mm in length.
• The finding has been published in the international journal ‘Reptiles and Amphibians’.

Ecological Challenges for Albino Snakes

From an ecological viewpoint, altered skin colour has serious survival implications. Most snakes rely on camouflage to blend into leaf litter, soil or water margins, avoiding predators and approaching prey undetected. Albino snakes, with their conspicuous pale bodies and red eyes, are far more visible in natural habitats, making predation more likely and adult survival rare. The Guwahati record therefore not only documents a genetic rarity but also underlines the delicate balance between morphology, behaviour and survival in wild reptile populations.