Rough scaled snake (Tropidechis carinatus)

Rough scaled snake (Tropidechis carinatus)

rough-scaled snake

Rough scaled snake (Tropidechis carinatus)
(Photo P.Mirtschin, Venom Supplies)

About

Also called the Clarence River snake it is usually found close to water and is active during the day, feeding on frogs and mice. The scales are keeled (hence the name rough-scaled snake) and the body usually greenish brown with dark bands on the back.  Average length is about 0.71m, maximum 1.07m.  It is sometimes mistaken for the harmless keel back snake (Amphiesma mairii). This is considered to be an aggressive snake and may strike rapidly when provoked.

Distribution

distribution map  for rough scaled snake

Distribution map of rough-scaled snake localities

This species is found  in isolated pockets along the coast of Queensland and northern New South Wales.

Venom

The average venom yield is approximately 5.5mg.  The venom contains myolytic, coagulant and neurotoxic components and is neutralized by tiger snake antivenom.  Several fatalities have occurred as a result of envenomation by this species.