Distribution

Northern Myanmar and northern Vietnam, as well as neighbouring regions of southern China and southeast Tibet. See also the link "Distribution" at the top of the page for detailed information.

Biology

Little is known about these rare species. They are considered very primitive vipers with large shields on a relatively flat head that is distinct from the body. Fangs quite short. Colouring dark with narrow, light-coloured cross bands. Length up to 80–90 cm.

Found in wet mountain forests of the Himalayan foothills, at an altitude of 600–1,500 m.

Risk

Unknown. Severe systemic envenoming unlikely.

Literature (biological)

Mallow et al. 2003, Minton et al. 1965, Obst et al. 1984, Orlov et al. 2013