Details

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Common Name: Blue Coral Snake (Malayan Blue Coral)

• Scientific Name: Calliophis bivirgatus (Listed as Hemibungarus bivirgatus)

• Family: Elapidae

• Classification: Reptilia (Squamata)

• Toxicity Level: EXTREME (Unique Cytotoxic & Neurotoxic blend; No specific antivenom)

• Origin: Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore)

• Adult Size: 1.2 – 1.8 meters (4 – 6 feet)

• Lifespan: 10 – 15 years

• Diet: Specialized Ophiophagous (Feeds on other snakes)

The Blue Coral Snake is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful snakes on the planet. It features a striking deep midnight-blue or black body, flanked by a lateral light blue or white stripe on each side. Its head and tail are a brilliant, shocking crimson red. When threatened, it curls its tail to display the red underside as a warning. It is a semi-fossorial and terrestrial snake found in forest leaf litter.

Notes DANGER: Do not be fooled by its lack of a hood. This species possesses enormous venom glands that extend through one-third of its body. Its venom acts differently from other cobras, causing "spastic paralysis" (constant full-body muscle spasms).
Husbandry: Requires cool temperatures and deep substrate. It is strictly a snake-eater, making feeding in captivity challenging without a supply of feeder snakes.

Why Source This Species:

• The "Crown Jewel" of Elapids: For serious venomous collectors, this is often considered the ultimate display animal due to its unbelievable "fire and ice" coloration.

• Rarity: It is elusive in the wild and difficult to source, commanding high respect and value in the community.

• Scientific Curiosity: Its unique physiology (massive venom glands) makes it a subject of fascination for biology enthusiasts.