Brahminy Blind Snake (Indotyphlops brahminus)- Concertina Locomotion
The Brahminy Blind Snake, Indotyphlops brahminus is one of the smallest snakes which is non venomous, parthenogenetic with no males reported. Females may lay 1-8 eggs which begin cell division without being fertilized by sperms. The Snake is about 11 to 16 centimetres in length, easily mistaken for an earthworm, with the head and tails both being blunt. It has a slender body covered in smooth shiny scales. It may be dark brown to reddish brown in colour which allows it to merge with its surroundings and help it from potential predators. With extremely reduced eyes, almost nonfunctional, it relies primarily on its increased sense of touch and sensitivity to vibrations.
The species displays an interesting behaviour known as ‘Concertina Locomotion’ by alternately contracting and extending the front and rear portions of its body, creating a distinctive accordion like movement which enable it to move efficiently through its sub terranean habitat.
It is the most widespread snake. Originally native to Africa and Asia it has reached other continents also. They are good burrowers but occasionally also found on trees in both urban and agricultural areas. These small snakes do not bite but may release foul smelling musk’s from two glands at the base of the tail. They feed on eggs, larvae and pupae of ants and termites.
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Acknowledgements-Dr. Yashpal Singh, Mrs. Neena Singh, Manoj Kumar Yadav