Borneo python

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Borneo python

Least Concern (IUCN 3.1)[1]
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Squamata
Suborder: Serpentes
Family: Pythonidae
Genus: Python
Species:
P. breitensteini
Binomial name
Python breitensteini
Synonyms
  • Python breitensteini Steindachner, 1880
  • Python curtus breitensteini
    Stull, 1935
  • Python curtus breitensteini
    Stimson, 1969[2]
  • Python breitensteini
    Keogh, Barker & Shine, 2001[3]

The Borneo python (Python breitensteini), also known commonly as the Borneo short-tailed python, is a species of non-venomous snake in the family Pythonidae. The species is endemic to the island of Borneo.[1][2]

Taxonomy

For a while considered a

reptiles in Borneo.[4]

Description

Juvenile
Juvenile in captivity

Adults of P. breitensteini have been reported to attain a total length (including tail) of 2.1 m (7 ft), although they are usually no more than 1.2 m (4 ft). Heavy-bodied, they can weigh as much as 13.6 kg (30 lb). Females are generally larger than males. The head is broad with several thermoreceptive pits along the nose. The tail is short and tapering.[citation needed]

The color pattern is usually tan with brown blotching, which varies greatly. Though no instances of albinism have been reported, a few individuals display a significantly lighter color, appearing more yellow than brown. Juveniles have a more contrasting pattern than adults. The head is usually yellow.[citation needed]

Distribution and habitat

On the island of Borneo, P. breitensteini is found in Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia.[1][2] Typically, it is found at lower elevations, on poorly drained flood plains, or on the edges of swampy areas; man-made irrigation of farmland has also provided appropriate habitat.[citation needed]

Reproduction

P. breitensteini is oviparous.[3]

Captivity

Hatchling egg tooth visible

While the Borneo python generally has a reputation for being mean-tempered, this species is increasing in popularity among reptile enthusiasts because captive-bred specimens are recognized as easier to handle than wild-caught snakes. Almost all of the early imported animals were animals originally caught for the skin trade.[citation needed]

References

Further reading

  • . (Python breitensteini, p. 16).
  • Keogh JS, Barker DG, Shine R (2001). "Heavily Exploited but Poorly Known: Systematics and Biogeography of Commercially Harvested Pythons (Python curtus group) in Southeast Asian". Biological Journal of the Linnean Society 73: 113-129.
  • Steindachner F (1880) ("1881"). "Über eine neue Pythonart (Python Breitensteini) aus Borneo". Sitzungberichte der Kaiserlichen Akademie der Wissenschaften. Mathematisch-Naturwissenschaftliche Classe. Abtheilung I. (Vienna) 82: 267-268. (Python breitensteini, new species).

External links