Crotalus tortugensis

The Tortuga Rattlesnake ( Crotalus tortugensis ) is a species of rattlesnakes (Crotalus ) within the vipers ( Viperidae ). Its distribution area is limited to the Mexican island of Tortuga in the Gulf of California.

Features

The Tortuga rattlesnake is a relatively long rattlesnake with a body length of up to one meter. In the coloration it resembles the closely related Texas Rattlesnake (C. atrox ), with distinction as the only slightly lighter centers of the spinal diamonds are mentioned. The basic color is gray to gray-brown with a distinct series of diamond-shaped back spots ( diamonds), which are surrounded by bright dorsal scales.

Distribution and habitat

The distribution of snake is restricted to the island of Tortuga in the Gulf of California, which belongs to Mexico. It is a very dry habitat with a stony ground. The vegetation consists of cactus and other drought- resistant plants.

Snake venom

About the specific effect and composition of the venom of this kind there is no information, probably similar to the Texas Rattlesnake. In studies it was found that the average amount of venom that is delivered in one bite, only about 56 mg while those with 277 mg in the Texas Rattlesnake is about five times as high.

Threats and conservation

The Tortuga rattlesnake is classified as not at risk (least concern) in the IUCN Red List. The population of the snake is regarded as stable and in their very small distribution area, it occurs in large numbers of individuals. A vulnerability to natural disasters, people, pets, or invasive species are not accepted on the uninhabited island.

Documents

Cited evidence

The information in this article originate for the most part the limits given in literature sources, in addition, the following sources are cited: