Tropidophis xanthogaster

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Guanahacabibes dwarf boa
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Squamata
Suborder: Serpentes
Family: Tropidophiidae
Genus: Tropidophis
Species:
T. xanthogaster
Binomial name
Tropidophis xanthogaster

Tropidophis xanthogaster, also known commonly as the Guanahacabibes dwarf boa and the Guanahacabibes trope, is a species of snake in the family Tropidophiidae (dwarf boas). The species is endemic to the Guanahacabibes Peninsula, in the province of Pinar del Río, western Cuba.

Etymology[edit]

The specific name, xanthogaster, from Greek xantho- (yellow) and gaster (venter), refers to the yellow underside of this species.[2]

Habitat[edit]

The preferred natural habitat of T. xanthogaster is forest with shaded rocky areas and caves, at elevations up to 25 m (82 ft).[1]

Description[edit]

Dorsally, T. xanthogaster is grayish-brown with eight rows of dark brown spots. Ventrally, it is yellow. It may attain a snout-to-vent length (SVL) of about 24 cm (9.4 in).[2]

Reproduction[edit]

T. xanthogaster is ovoviviparous.[2]

References[edit]

  1. ^ a b Fong A (2019). "Tropidophis xanthogaster". The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2019: https://dx.doi.org/10.1305/IUCN.UK.2019-2.RLTS.T75606708A75608099.en. Accessed on 27 February 2023.
  2. ^ a b c Species Tropidophis xanthogaster at The Reptile Database www.reptile-database.com.

Further reading[edit]

  • Domínguez M, Moreno LV, Hedges SB (2006). "A new snake of the genus Tropidophis (Tropidophiidae) from the Guanahacabibes Peninsula of western Cuba". Amphibia-Reptilia 27: 427-432. (Tropidophis xanthogaster, new species).