Morphological Re-examination of the Endemic Paraguayan Snake Phalotris nigrilatus Ferrarezzi, 1993 (Serpentes: Colubridae: Elapomorphini), with Notes on its Ecology and Conservation Status

Abstract

The colubrid snake Phalotris nigrilatus is endemic to San Pedro Department (Paraguay) and is known from a very few historical specimens. We analyze morphological variation and geographic distribution of P. nigrilatus on the basis of currently available specimens, including long-overlooked museum material. Also, we briefly report for the first time its live coloration and behavior on the basis of a recently collected individual. Results of morphological and geographic analyses lead to a slight revision of diagnosis and an argument for a higher conservation priority for this species.