Evolutionary lineages of the banded krait discovered through molecular methods

Evolutionary lineages of the banded krait discovered through molecular methods

Subject: Environment

Section: Species in news

Context: A recent study finds that the highly venomous banded krait (Bungarus fasciatus) is likely to be an assemblage of different species across Asia.

More on the News:

• In recent years, genetic analysis methods have been increasingly used to identify cryptic species (species that may look identical but are evolutionarily distinct lineages) in vertebrates. These methods have been employed to identify genetically different species in reptiles and snakes.
• Studies have noted the possibility of differences within species using methods such as genetic barcoding. And studies are necessary to accurately identify and delineate snake species, especially those that are venomous, because of the implications of the composition of snake venom and what this means for developing efficient anti-venom.
• Using a combination of genetic and physical structure analyses, identified three distinct evolutionary groups of the banded krait occupying non-overlapping regions – Indo-Myanmar (east and north-east India and Myanmar), Sundaic (Greater Sunda islands), and east Asian (mainland Sundaland including southern China).
• An interesting finding from the analyses of one common gene across the three groups revealed that the Indo-Myanmar and Sundaic lineages had negligible genetic differences within themselves whereas the east Asian lineage contained a wider range of genetic differences.
• The study goes on to state that if these three different groups are accepted as independent species, that the Indo-Myanmar group is the original banded krait species that was first described in 1794; however, more generally, the east Asian and Sundaic groups may be referred to as banded kraits as well.

Banded krait:

• Banded krait, also known as the common krait, is a venomous snake species found in South and Southeast Asia.
• It belongs to the family Elapidae, which also includes cobras and coral snakes.
• The banded krait is easily recognized by its black and white bands, which run the length of its body and are broader than the intervals between them. Adults can grow up to 1.8 meters in length.
• The venom of the banded krait is highly toxic and can cause respiratory paralysis, which can be fatal if left untreated.
• Despite its venomous nature, the banded krait is relatively shy and non-aggressive towards humans, and is usually active at night.
• It primarily feeds on other snakes, including cobras and other venomous species.
• Snake that inhabits different landscapes like agricultural lands, forests, and home gardens up to specific elevations.
• The banded krait is listed as a “Least Concern” species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to its widespread distribution and relatively stable population.