Aquatic Coral Snake
Micrurus surinamensis
An unusually large and semi-aquatic coral snake of the Amazon Basin, notable among elapids for its strongly water-associated lifestyle and fish-heavy diet.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.7-1.2 m (28-47 in)
- Range
- Amazon Basin, South America
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Overview
The aquatic coral snake (Micrurus surinamensis) stands out among coral snakes for its semi-aquatic habits, inhabiting rivers, streams, and flooded forest of the Amazon Basin. It is one of the larger species in the genus Micrurus.
It possesses potent neurotoxic venom and is considered medically significant, though its aquatic, remote habitat limits frequent contact with humans.
How to identify it
A robust, ringed coral snake adapted to water.
- Broad black and red rings separated by narrower yellow rings, typical of coral snake patterning
- Comparatively large and heavy-bodied for a coral snake
- Smooth scales and a somewhat flattened tail aiding swimming
- Round pupils
- Adults typically 0.7-1.2 m, among the largest coral snake species
Habitat & range
Found in slow-moving rivers, streams, oxbow lakes, and seasonally flooded forest throughout the Amazon Basin, including Brazil, Peru, Colombia, and neighboring countries. It is strongly associated with water and often found swimming or resting near aquatic vegetation.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Largely aquatic and active both day and night, hunting fish and aquatic amphibians as primary prey, unusual among coral snakes which typically favor other snakes and lizards. It is generally secretive despite its size. Reproduction is oviparous.
Frequently asked questions
Is the aquatic coral snake venomous?
Yes, it has potent neurotoxic venom and is considered medically significant.
What makes the aquatic coral snake unusual among coral snakes?
It is strongly associated with rivers and flooded forest and feeds heavily on fish, unlike most coral snakes that prey on other reptiles.
Where is the aquatic coral snake found?
It occurs throughout the Amazon Basin in South America.
How big does the aquatic coral snake get?
Adults typically reach 0.7-1.2 m (28-47 in), making it one of the larger coral snake species.
Aquatic Coral Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Aquatic Coral Snake.
