Aplopeltura boa (Boie, 1828)

Genus Taxonomy

Aplopeltura is a genus of snakes in the family Pareidae. This genus contains only one species: Aplopeltura boa, which is commonly known as the blunthead slug snake or the blunt-headed slug-eating snake.

Species Distribution

This is a small, non-venomous snake species that can be found in southern Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, and the Philippines.

Diet

A. boa feeds mainly on snails, particularly operculate snail species.

Jaw Morphology

The jaws of this snake are more mobile than the jaws of most other vertebrates.

Feeding Mechanism

Using its mandibles, A. boa cuts the operculum off its snail prey through a unique "sawing" motion.

Death Feigning Behavior

A. boa has been observed engaging in simple death feigning behavior. During this behavior, the snake rolls itself into a spiral with its belly facing up, and remains still until any perceived threat leaves. Unlike other snakes that use death feigning, A. boa does not emit a foul odor or open its mouth when performing this behavior.