A new species of the natricine snake genus Amphiesma from the Indochinese Region (Squamata: Colubridae: Natricinae)

Abstract

A new species of the natricine snake genus Amphiesma is described from Central Vietnam and possibly Thailand. Amphiesma leucomystax spec. nov. is distinguished from other species of the Indochinese Region by the combination of a bright, broad white stripe extending below the eye from the tip of the snout to posterior supralabials and the neck, dorsolateral series of aligned, transversally elongated or divided spots, 19 dorsal scale rows at midbody, two first rows of dorsal scale rows smooth, moderately sized eyes, a high number of ventral scales (at least 154), and 1 anterior temporal. Its relationships with other Amphiesma species with 19 dorsal scale rows are discussed. Amphiesma leucomystax spec, nov. seems to be close to A. boulengeri. A key to the species of Amphiesma from the Indochinese Region is provided. ?? 2007 Magnolia Press.