Bothrops asper
Species of snake / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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The terciopelo (Bothrops asper)[note 1] is a highly venomous species of New World pit viper, found at low to moderate elevations, from northeastern Mexico through Central and South America, where it is known to inhabit elevations as high as 2600 meters (approx. 8,500') above sea level in the Colombian and Ecuadorian Andes, as well as Venezuela.[3] With a mass of up to 6 kilograms (13 lb), and a maximal length of 2.5 metres (8.2 ft), the terciopelo is among the largest of the pit vipers. It is light to dark brown in color, often with yellowish, zig-zag patterning on either side of its body. Dubbed "the ultimate pit-viper" for its large size, fangs and potent venom yield, it has a fearsome reputation, and is one of the species responsible for the most envenomated snakebites within its range, largely due to its proximity to humans, livestock and pets.[2] Nonetheless, like all venomous snakes (and indeed all reptiles and smaller animals), the terciopelo actively avoids all contact with humans and larger animals, with bites generally only occurring when the snake is cornered, pursued, or otherwise threatened in some capacity. No subspecies are currently recognized.[6]
Bothrops asper | |
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Scientific classification | |
Domain: | Eukaryota |
Kingdom: | Animalia |
Phylum: | Chordata |
Class: | Reptilia |
Order: | Squamata |
Suborder: | Serpentes |
Family: | Viperidae |
Genus: | Bothrops |
Species: | B. asper |
Binomial name | |
Bothrops asper (Garman, 1884) | |
Geographical range of Bothrops asper. | |
Synonyms | |
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