Bungarus

Andaman Krait

Bungarus bungaroides

Coomon Krait

Bungar candi 120608-0343 krw

The Ceylon krait or Sri Lankan krait (Bungarus ceylonicus) is a species of venomous snake endemic to the island Sri Lanka

Bungarus is a genus of venomous elapid snakes, commonly known as kraits, found in South and Southeast Asia. This genus contains some of the most medically significant snake species in its range, due to the potent neurotoxins produced by these snakes. The members of this genus are characterized by their slender bodies, smooth scales, and prominently marked in banded patterns, although the coloration can vary significantly among species.

Description

Kraits are relatively slender snakes with a smooth scale texture, which aids in their nocturnal and fossorial (burrowing) habits. They range in size from small to moderately large species. The banded appearance, with alternating black and white or yellow bands, is common among many species within this genus, serving as a warning coloration to potential predators. Their heads are not distinctly set off from their bodies, and their eyes are typically small with rounded pupils.

Distribution and Habitat

The distribution of the Bungarus genus spans across the tropical and subtropical regions of South and Southeast Asia, including countries such as India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Kraits prefer habitats such as forests, grasslands, and the vicinity of water bodies. They are also often found near human settlements, which leads to frequent human-snake encounters.

Behavior

Kraits are primarily nocturnal and are more active during the night when they hunt for their prey. They are generally terrestrial but can climb trees and swim well. Kraits are known for their shy and reclusive nature, often hiding during the day. Despite their potent venom, they are not aggressive and tend to avoid confrontation with humans unless provoked or accidentally disturbed.

Diet

The diet of kraits primarily consists of other snakes, including other kraits, making them ophiophagous. They also prey on small mammals, lizards, and frogs. Their hunting strategy involves using their venom to immobilize prey quickly.

Venom

The venom of kraits is highly toxic and primarily neurotoxic, affecting the nervous system of the victim. It blocks the synaptic transmission by binding to the presynaptic nerve terminals, leading to paralysis and potentially death due to respiratory failure. Despite the potency of their venom, fatalities are less common compared to other venomous snakes in the region, partly because of their nocturnal nature and non-aggressive behavior towards humans.

Medical Significance

Kraits are of significant medical importance in their native range, where snakebite incidents involving these species can result in serious health complications or death. Antivenom is available and effective in treating krait bites, but the success of treatment depends on the timely administration after the bite.

Conservation

The conservation status of krait species varies, with some species being common and widespread, while others may be threatened by habitat destruction and human activities. Conservation efforts are necessary to ensure the survival of less common species and to manage the interactions between kraits and human populations effectively.

Species

The genus Bungarus includes several species, such as the Bungarus candidus (Malayan krait or blue krait), Bungarus fasciatus (Banded krait), and Bungarus caeruleus (Indian krait), among others. Each species has its unique distribution, habitat preference, and level of venom toxicity.