A new species of snake, Dendrelaphis thasuni, has been discovered in the biologically rich Maragala mountain range near Monaragala, adding to Sri Lanka’s growing list of endemic reptiles. This new species, which belongs to the genus Dendrelaphis in the colubridae family, brings the total number of Dendrelaphis species in Sri Lanka to eight—six of which are endemic.
Named in honor of Dr. Thasun Amarasinghe, a prominent herpetologist known for his two decades of work in reptile and amphibian research, the species is locally referred to as Thasunge Haldanda. Despite being diurnal by classification, this snake has uniquely adapted to a nocturnal lifestyle. Its camouflage matches the surrounding foliage, and it is noted for its speed and agility.
The discovery was made by a collaborative team of Sri Lankan and international researchers, including Anusha Attanagoda, Dr. Anselm de Silva, Dr. Gernot Vogel (Germany), Sitar Udayanga, Champika Bandara, Majintha Madawala, Dr. L. Lee Grismer (USA), and Suranjan Karunaratne.
The Maragala mountain range, a recognized biodiversity hotspot, is home to 67 identified reptile species—30 of which are endemic—as well as 18 amphibian species, five of which are also endemic. Eighteen species from this region are listed as threatened on the IUCN Red List.
Researchers believe many more undiscovered species likely exist in the area, highlighting its ecological significance and the urgent need for continued conservation efforts.
