Beaked Sea Snake
Hydrophis schistosus
A highly venomous, fully aquatic sea snake often entangled in fishing nets, considered responsible for many sea snake bite incidents.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 1-1.2 m (3.3-4 ft)
- Range
- Indo-Pacific coastal waters, from the Persian Gulf to Southeast Asia
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Overview
The Beaked Sea Snake is a fully marine species found in shallow coastal and estuarine waters throughout the Indo-Pacific. It is frequently encountered by fishermen due to its habit of becoming trapped in nets.
Its potent venom and frequent contact with fishing operations make it one of the sea snakes most often implicated in bites on humans in the region.
How to identify it
- Compressed, paddle-like tail typical of true sea snakes
- Distinctive narrow, upturned snout with a slightly hooked appearance
- Pale gray to olive body with darker crossbands or blotches, fading with age
- Small head not much wider than the neck
- Round pupils
- Distinguished from other sea snakes by its narrow, beak-like snout
Habitat & range
Found in shallow coastal waters, river mouths, and muddy or sandy substrates across the Indo-Pacific, from the Persian Gulf to Southeast Asian and Australian waters.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Fully aquatic and unable to move on land. Feeds mainly on catfish and other bottom-dwelling fish. Ovoviviparous, giving birth to live young at sea. Can become defensive if trapped in nets.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Beaked Sea Snake dangerous?
Yes, it is highly venomous and one of the sea snakes most frequently involved in bites on fishermen.
Where does it live?
In shallow coastal waters and estuaries across the Indo-Pacific, from the Persian Gulf to Southeast Asia.
Can it survive on land?
No, it is fully aquatic and cannot move effectively on land.
What does it eat?
Mainly catfish and other bottom-dwelling fish.
Beaked Sea Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Beaked Sea Snake.
