Bothrops jararacussu Lacerda, 1884

Nomenclature and Basic Traits

The jararacussu, scientific name Bothrops jararacussu Lacerda, 1884, is a fairly large pit viper that grows up to 2.2 meters long, with a robust body and head, and very aggressive behavior.

Body Coloration

The color of its body and head varies widely. Its background body color can range from brown or yellow to nearly black.

Scale Pattern

Its pattern of dark and light scales forms a series of dark arches, and the spots along the dorsal midline are shaped like the letter X.

Head and Scale Features

It has medium-sized eyes with vertically elliptical pupils, and strongly keeled dorsal scales.

Venom Apparatus

It has large 2.5 cm fangs and can inject a large amount of venom.

Diet

It usually feeds on amphibians and rodents.

Reproduction

It is ovoviviparous, giving birth to between 16 and 20 young during the rainy season.

Activity Pattern

It is active both during the day and at night, typically warming itself in morning sun before venturing out to hunt at night.

Geographic Distribution

This species is found in South America, specifically in coastal Brazil from Bahia to Santa Catarina, Paraguay, southeastern Bolivia, and Misiones Province in northeastern Argentina.

Habitat

It occurs in the Atlantic Forest and semi-deciduous forest, and also lives in perennial forests, and pine forests of Paraná, in low swampy regions and along river banks.