Checkered Keelback:
A team from the Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden recently recorded the first case of albinism in the checkered keelback (Fowlea piscator), also called the Asian water snake, in Assam.
- The Checkered keelback, also known commonly as the Asiatic water snake, is a medium-sized nonvenomous snake native to Asia.
- Scientific Name: Fowlea piscator
- It is typically found in the Indian subcontinent, including India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.
- It is found in almost all parts of India, including Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
- It has a slender and elongated body, making it agile and fast.
- The average length is around 3-4 feet, and it weighs between 200-500 grams.
- Its body is stout and covered with keeled scales on the upper side.
- Its colour is olive-brown, olive-green or yellow, usually with black patches.
- Sometimes it is found in red too.
- Its underside is off-white or light yellow.
- Its head pointed and slightly broader than the neck.
- Its diet mainly consists of fish, frogs, and small reptiles.
- IUCN Ref List: Least Concern
