Broad-Banded Temple Pit Viper
Tropidolaemus laticinctus
A boldly banded temple pit viper endemic to the island of Sulawesi, Indonesia.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.6-0.9 m (2-3 ft)
- Range
- Sulawesi, Indonesia
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Overview
The broad-banded temple pit viper belongs to the genus Tropidolaemus, a group of arboreal Asian pit vipers known for striking color patterns and sexual dichromatism. It is endemic to the island of Sulawesi in Indonesia.
It shares the genus's typical wide, flattened head and vivid banding, distinguishing it from more uniformly green Trimeresurus species.
How to identify it
- Body marked with broad, contrasting bands, often green, yellow, or brown
- Sexual dichromatism common in the genus, with males and females differing in pattern
- Broad, somewhat flattened triangular head
- Vertically elliptical pupils
- Strongly keeled scales
- Distinguished from other temple pit vipers by the width and contrast of its banding
Habitat & range
Found in tropical forests of Sulawesi, typically in low to mid-canopy vegetation near streams and forest edges.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and arboreal, coiling on branches during the day. Feeds on frogs, lizards, and small mammals. Gives live birth to litters of young.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the broad-banded temple pit viper found?
It is endemic to the island of Sulawesi in Indonesia.
What genus does it belong to?
It belongs to Tropidolaemus, the temple pit viper genus known for vivid patterns.
Is it venomous?
Yes, it is a venomous pit viper.
Does it show differences between males and females?
Yes, like other temple pit vipers, it can show sexual dichromatism in coloration and pattern.
Broad-Banded Temple Pit Viper guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Broad-Banded Temple Pit Viper.
