Ornate Sea Snake
Hydrophis ornatus
A moderately robust sea snake with variable, often diamond-shaped dorsal markings, found across coral reef and coastal waters of the Indo-Pacific.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 1.0-1.4 m (3.3-4.6 ft)
- Range
- Indo-Pacific coastal and reef waters
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Overview
The ornate sea snake is a widespread reef-associated marine elapid found across much of the tropical Indo-Pacific. Its common name refers to its variable, often intricately patterned dorsal markings.
It is venomous, using its bite to subdue small fish prey, but is not considered aggressive and rarely poses a threat to humans in the water.
How to identify it
- Moderately stout body
- Pale gray to olive-brown ground color with dark, often diamond- or rhombus-shaped blotches along the back
- Pattern variable and sometimes fading with age
- Small head, paddle-shaped tail
- Adults typically 1.0-1.4 m
Habitat & range
Found over coral reefs, seagrass beds, and sandy or muddy coastal bottoms across the Indo-Pacific, from the eastern coast of Africa through South and Southeast Asia to northern Australia and the western Pacific.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Forages for small fish among reef and soft-bottom habitats. Active by day and night. Reproduction is ovoviviparous, with live young born at sea.
Frequently asked questions
What does the ornate sea snake look like?
It has a pale body with dark, often diamond-shaped blotches running along its back.
Is it venomous?
Yes, though it is not aggressive and rarely bites humans.
Where does it live?
In coral reef and coastal waters across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
Does it lay eggs?
No, it gives birth to live young at sea rather than laying eggs.
Ornate Sea Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Ornate Sea Snake.
