Python kyaiktiyo

Python kyaiktiyo
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Subphylum:	Vertebrata
Class:	Reptilia
Order:	Squamata
Suborder:	Serpentes
Family:	Pythonidae
Genus:	Python
Species:	P. kyaiktiyo
Binomial name
Python kyaiktiyo Zug, Gotte & Jacobs, 2011

Python kyaiktiyo, commonly known as the Myanmar short-tailed python, is a species of python found in Myanmar (Burma).^[1]

Description

The Myanmar short-tailed python is a non-venomous, ovoviparous constrictor which grow up to 6 feet (1.83 meters) in length. They are smooth-scaled, primarily terrestrial, and possess, as do most pythons, facial pits which sense differentiations in radiant heat. They are naturally overall reddish brown in color with dark brown to black mottled spots running the entire length of the body.

Etymology

The specific name, kyaiktiyo, is in honor of the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site in Myanmar.

Geographic range

P. kyaiktiyo is endemic to the Mon State of Myanmar and has been observed rarely in the region. As a result, the species has been placed on the IUCN red list of endangered species.

Taxonomy

This species was first described by George R. Zug, Steve W. Gotte, and Jeremy F. Jacobs of the Biological Society of Washington in 2011. Presence of unique traits and sufficient allopatry indicate that it is a unique species from its nearest geographical counterpart, the blood python.

See also

• List of pythonid species and subspecies.
• Pythonidae by common name.
• Pythonidae by taxonomic synonyms.

References