Persian Gulf Sea Snake
Hydrophis lapemoides
A moderately sized, banded sea snake commonly found in the shallow waters of the Persian Gulf and surrounding Arabian Sea coastlines.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.7-1.1 m (2.3-3.6 ft)
- Range
- Persian Gulf, Arabian Sea, and adjacent coastal waters
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Overview
The Persian Gulf sea snake is a common marine elapid found throughout the Persian Gulf, Arabian Sea, and nearby coastal waters of the Middle East and South Asia. It is one of the more frequently encountered sea snakes within its regional range.
It possesses venom used to capture fish prey and, while capable of biting, is generally regarded as non-aggressive toward humans.
How to identify it
- Moderately slender body with a paddle-shaped tail
- Pale gray to yellowish-olive coloration with dark grayish-brown crossbands, often more distinct anteriorly
- Small head
- Smooth scales
- Adults typically 0.7-1.1 m
Habitat & range
Inhabits shallow coastal waters, particularly over muddy and sandy substrates, throughout the Persian Gulf, Arabian Sea, and adjacent parts of the northern Indian Ocean.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Feeds on small fish, foraging along shallow coastal bottoms. Reproduction is ovoviviparous, with live young born at sea.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Persian Gulf sea snake found?
Throughout the Persian Gulf, Arabian Sea, and adjacent coastal waters of the Middle East and South Asia.
Is it venomous?
Yes, though it is generally non-aggressive toward humans.
How can it be identified?
By its pale body marked with dark grayish-brown crossbands, most distinct toward the front of the body.
What does it eat?
Small fish found in shallow coastal waters.
Persian Gulf Sea Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Persian Gulf Sea Snake.
