Variation in the Snake Tretanorhinus nigroluteus lateralis in Belize with Notes on Breeding Tubercles

Abstract

All specimens of the colubrid snake Tretanorhinus nigroluteus lateralis from Belize in United States collections were examined including 37 specimens from the New River at Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk District. Tretanorhinus n. lateralis and T. n. mertensi are most likely synonymous as they agree closely in lepidosis, color, and pattern. Adult male Tretanorhinus from the New River develop tubercles seasonally. These are especially well-developed on the infralabials, chin shields, gulars, and anterior ventrals. Most likely the tubercles are used for stimulating females during courtship or maintaining body contact during mating