Laticauda saintgironsi Cogger & Heatwole, 2006

Sexual Dimorphism

Laticauda saintgironsi displays sexual dimorphism, where females reach a larger size than males.

Size

The maximum recorded snout-to-vent length (SVL) for males of this species is 81.7 cm (32.2 in), while the maximum recorded SVL for females is 109 cm (43 in).

Head and Scale Features

The upper lip of this species is yellow or cream-colored, and its rostral scale is undivided.

Species Distinction Traits

This species can be distinguished from related species by the combination of its yellow upper lip (a trait it shares with the yellow-lipped sea krait) and 21 rows of mid-body scales.

Comparative Scale Morphology

In contrast, the yellow-lipped sea krait has 23 banded scale rows that meet at the ventral side of its body.

Endemic Range

Laticauda saintgironsi is endemic to New Caledonia, including the Loyalty Islands.

Extralimital Records

It is only found very rarely outside of its native range; a single specimen was recorded in New Zealand in 1925.

Dispersal Limitation Reason

This limited dispersal is likely because Laticauda species typically stay onshore or in shallow water, which reduces their chance of being carried away by oceanic currents.

Habitat and Depth Range

The natural habitats of Laticauda saintgironsi are marine, intertidal, and supratidal environments, ranging from a depth of 80 m (260 ft) below sea level to an altitude of 100 m (330 ft) above sea level.

Reproduction

Laticauda saintgironsi is an oviparous species.