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Chinese water snake

Species of snake From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

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The Chinese water snake, Chinese smooth water snake, Chinese mud snake or Chinese rice paddy snake (Enhydris chinensis or Myrrophis chinensis) is a species of mildly venomous, rear-fanged snake, endemic to Asia.

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Geographic range

Enhydris chinensis is found in China, Taiwan, and Vietnam.[2]

Habitat

As the common name suggests, the Chinese water snake is a highly aquatic species, adapting well to human-altered environments such as fish pools and rice paddies.[1]

Conservation status

Enhydris chinensis is considered common,[1] although it has declined in Taiwan and is protected there.[3]

Description

Enhydris chinensis is a relatively small snake reaching total length (including tail) of up to 80 cm (31 in).[3]

Diet

The Chinese water snake typically feeds on fish and amphibians.[3]

Commercial use

Enhydris chinensis are harvested for food and skins, but this is not considered to be threatening its populations.[1]

Medicinal use

Enhydris chinensis is used in folk medicine.[4] It is commonly used in the production of Chinese snake oil.

References

Further reading

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