Micrurus mertensi


Micrurus mertensi, also known commonly as Mertens's coral snake and the Peruvian desert coral snake, is a species of venomous snake in the family Elapidae. The species is native to northwestern South America.

Etymology

The specific name, mertensi, is in honor of German herpetologist Robert Mertens.

Geographic distribution

Micrurus mertensi is found in Ecuador and Peru.

Habitat

Micrurus mertensi is found in a variety of habitats, including forest, shrubland, and desert, at elevations from near sea level to, usually near a river or stream.

Reproduction

Micrurus mertensi, is oviparous.