Biak Green Tree Python
Morelia viridis
An island locality form of the green tree python from Biak Island in Cenderawasih Bay, often noted for bold blue speckling on an emerald-green body.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 1.2-1.8 m (4-6 ft)
- Range
- Biak Island, Cenderawasih Bay, Papua, Indonesia
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Overview
The Biak green tree python is a distinctive island population of Morelia viridis native to Biak, a large island in Cenderawasih Bay off the northern coast of New Guinea. Geographic isolation on the island has produced a locality type frequently described by keepers and field observers as having striking sky-blue flecking scattered across a rich green base color.
As with other locality forms, it is not classified as a separate taxon, but Biak specimens are visually distinctive enough that the population is commonly referenced by name in both scientific and hobbyist literature.
How to identify it
- Deep green adult base color with scattered pale blue to turquoise speckling, often more extensive than mainland forms
- Reduced or broken white vertebral stripe
- Large triangular head with heat-sensing pits along the lips
- Vertical pupils
- Strongly prehensile tail and laterally flattened body typical of the species
- Juveniles hatch yellow or red and change to green with maturity
Habitat & range
Restricted to Biak Island's lowland tropical forest within Cenderawasih Bay. Arboreal, occupying understory vegetation, forest edges, and secondary growth at low elevations near sea level.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal ambush predator that rests coiled on a branch by day and hunts small mammals, birds, and lizards at night. Juveniles employ caudal luring, wiggling the tail tip to attract prey. Reproduction is oviparous, with females brooding eggs by coiling around the clutch.
Frequently asked questions
What makes the Biak locality distinctive?
Biak specimens are often noted for pronounced blue speckling across the green body, though this trait can vary between individuals.
Is it a different species from other green tree pythons?
No, it remains Morelia viridis, just a geographically isolated island population.
Is it dangerous to humans?
No, it is non-venomous and relies on constriction to subdue prey.
Where is Biak Island located?
In Cenderawasih Bay off the northern coast of West Papua, Indonesia.
Biak Green Tree Python guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Biak Green Tree Python.
