New species of horned viper and found in the area of Tanzania. Type of snake was named Atheris matildae found Tim Davenport, scientists from the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and the team through the expedition to the region.
Atheris matildae known to be close relatives of Atheris cerathopora, horned serpents and venomous species which are found in the woods. Scientists predict that the horned snake Matilda separated into a new species from 2.2 million years ago.
One of the horned snake horned Matilda with jungle snake is bigger in size, about 64.3 cm. Another difference is the different colors, yellow and black alloys, as well as the typical pattern of scales on the head.
Davenport said Atheris matildae habitat is very limited, only an area of 100 sq km and has been degraded. Davenport said that the species should be included in the category of "Endangered" in the red list of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Found in Tanzania, the specific location of the discovery of this snake species remain confidential. Is assembled with the magnitude of the threat to the survival of the species. Snakes with eksotismenya often hunted for their skin or used as pets.
"Global wildlife trade is enormous, and the significance of the illegal trade in amphibians and reptiles are wild, to pets. Snakes are very popular and growing interest in new types of snakes are high," said Davenport just as quoted by Mongabay on Thursday (15/12 / 2011).
To maintain the continuity of the horned snake species Matilda, now scientists are taking 4 males, 5 females and 2 pups from Atheris matildae to bred. The effort is expected to be guaranteed the existence of horned snakes Matilda.
"We plan to provide the first dozen of this snake for free in order to give supply to the captive market of this new species. Aim to prevent the collection of wild catches, lower prices and encourage responsible breeding by experts from various countries who most want it," said Davenport .
