Micruroides

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Micruroides 2

USA Coral Snake Range

Micruroides is a genus of venomous elapid snakes native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. This genus is commonly referred to as the Sonoran coral snake or the Arizona coral snake, with its most recognized species being Micruroides euryxanthus, the Arizona coral snake. The snakes within this genus are small, typically less than 70 cm in length, and are known for their distinctive tricolor pattern of black, white, and red bands. This coloration is a form of Batesian mimicry, where the non-venomous or less venomous species mimic the coloration of highly venomous species to deter predators.

Description

Members of the genus Micruroides are slender and small compared to other venomous snakes in their range. They have smooth scales and a cylindrical body, with a short tail and a somewhat rounded head that is not distinct from the neck. Their color pattern is a series of red, white (or yellow), and black bands that encircle the body. The red bands are usually bordered by the white or yellow bands, which helps in distinguishing them from some non-venomous mimic species, where the red and black bands touch.

Distribution and Habitat

Micruroides species are found in the southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona, and extend into Mexico. They inhabit desert and semi-arid regions, often hiding under rocks, in crevices, or burrowing into loose soil to escape the extreme heat of their environment. They are most active during the evening and early morning hours, especially after rainfall.

Behavior

These snakes are secretive and rarely seen. They are primarily nocturnal, coming out from their hiding places at night to hunt. Their diet consists mainly of small lizards, rodents, and sometimes other snakes. When threatened, Micruroides species may curl up, bury their heads under their coils, and elevate their tails. Unlike some other venomous snakes, they are not known to be aggressive and will typically attempt to flee rather than confront a threat.

Venom

The venom of Micruroides is neurotoxic, affecting the nervous system of the victim. It can cause difficulty in breathing, muscle weakness, and paralysis. However, bites from these snakes are extremely rare due to their reclusive nature and the fact that their small size limits their ability to deliver a significant amount of venom to humans. There have been few recorded incidents of bites from Micruroides, and antivenom is rarely required.

Conservation

Currently, there is no significant conservation concern for Micruroides species. They are relatively widespread within their range and are not considered endangered. However, habitat destruction and the general decline of reptile populations worldwide suggest that monitoring their status is important.

See Also

• Elapidae
• Venomous snakes
• Batesian mimicry