New Shieldtail Snake Species Discovered in Kerala’s Siruvani Hills

New Shieldtail Snake Species Identified in Kerala Highlights Hidden Biodiversity

A previously undocumented shieldtail snake species, Rhinophis siruvaniensis , has been formally described nearly a decade after its initial sighting in Kerala’s Palakkad district . The discovery sheds light on the exceptional biodiversity of the Siruvani Hills in the Western Ghats and underlines the growing role of citizen participation in scientific research.

Chance Encounter on a Plantation

The snake was first noticed in 2015 by a local guide working on a coffee plantation. Its unusual appearance drew the attention of naturalists, leading to systematic field surveys. Three specimens recovered from shallow soil layers later formed the basis of a detailed scientific study published in 2025 . The species is distinguished by its glossy body, unique scale patterns and a dome-shaped tail tip , setting it apart from other known shieldtail snakes.

Scientific Examination and Genetic Evidence

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science carried out extensive morphological analysis, including scale counts, body proportions and colour patterns. Genetic studies using mitochondrial DNA markers confirmed that the species is closely related to Rhinophis melanoleucus from Wayanad, but sufficiently distinct to warrant separate species status. Scientists note that further analysis using nuclear DNA will enhance taxonomic precision.

Ecology and Conservation Significance

Shieldtails are non-venomous, burrowing snakes that remain hidden underground for most of their lives, making them difficult to study. Their dependence on specific soil conditions and specialised diets makes them particularly vulnerable to habitat disturbance and climate change. The discovery within a plantation landscape suggests that significant undocumented biodiversity may persist outside protected forests.

Future Research and Citizen Science

Ongoing initiatives such as the Shieldtail Mapping Project continue to involve local communities in documenting these elusive reptiles. With environmental pressures mounting in the Western Ghats, identifying and cataloguing such species is critical for setting informed conservation priorities.

Exam Point

• Rhinophis siruvaniensis described in 2025 from the Siruvani Hills .

• Shieldtails belong to the Uropeltidae family; they are non-venomous burrowers .

• The genus Rhinophis has 26 species , six recorded in India.

• Mitochondrial DNA used for initial genetic confirmation.