On the occurrence of rhabdophis leonardi (Wall, 1923) in vietnam and laos, with preliminary comments on the taxonomy and distribution of the complex of rhabdophis nuchalis (squamata: Serpentes: Natricidae)

Abstract

The species Rhabdophis leonardi (Wall, 1923) is recorded for the first time from Vietnam (Lao Cai Province) based on the re-examination of specimens deposited in the collections of the Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle (Paris) which were formerly identified as Rhabdophis nuchalis. Furthermore, we also re-evaluate the taxonomy and distribution of species of the complex Rhabdophis nuchalis group and we provide an updated identification key to species of this complex.