Langaha pseudoalluaudi

Langaha pseudoalluaudi, also known as the Ambilobe leaf-nosed snake, is one of three species within the genus Langaha. The Ambilobe leaf-nosed snake is the least common and least understood within the genus. They are known for having a leaf-like nasal protrusion and being extremely cryptic.

Langaha pseudoalluaudi
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Class:	Reptilia
Order:	Squamata
Suborder:	Serpentes
Family:	Pseudoxyrhophiidae
Genus:	Langaha
Species:	L. pseudoalluaudi
Binomial name
Langaha pseudoalluaudi Domergue, 1988

Description

Langaha pseudoalluaudi is a non-venomous, relatively large, arboreal snake with a unique nasal appendage protruding from their nose.^[1] They are a grey/brown/tan color with lighter colored banding along the whole body.^[1][2][3] From one account, the total length for a female was 1260mm (4.13ft) and the total length for a male was 1275mm (4.18ft).^[4]

The unique nasal appendage acts as camouflage and causes the snakes' head to look like a twig or rotten stump when viewed from the front.^[2] The supraocular scales are enlarged and horn-like, adding to the complexity of their camouflage.^[1][2] Prey items are likely not able to distinguish L. pseudoalluaudi from twigs when they are approached by the snake.^[2]

Ambilobe leaf-nosed Snakes exhibit sexual dimorphism between males and females, particularly on the nasal protrusion. Females have a broader and flatter protrusion that is leaf-like in shape while males have a pointed spear-like protrusion.^[2]

Distribution and habitat

Langaha pseudoalluaudi is regionally endemic to northwestern Madagascar, near the Ambilobe region.^[1][2][4][5] Due to few encounters, the extent of the range is not well understood.

Ambilobe leaf-nosed snakes have been observed in and around dry deciduous forests and rainforests.^[2][4] Specimens that have been found were on shrubby plants approximately 2-3 meters off the ground on the edge of forests, or crossing a path.^[5][2] Scientists noted that the habitats were relatively open and at an altitude between 80-250 meters.^[5][2]

Diet

There are no observations about what what L. pseudoalluaudi predates upon. However, a closely related snake species, Langaha madagascariensis, has been observed eating lizards and small mice.^[3] It is hypothesized that L. pseudoalluadi would have a similar diet.^[3]

Reproduction

Like others in its genus, L. pseudoalluaudi is oviparous. The only observation about reproductive output showed that a female had a clutch size of three eggs.^[6]