Variation in Zapotitlan coralsnake, Micrurus pachecogili (Serpentes : Elapidae)

Abstract

Micrurus pachecogili is a rare coralsnake that inhabits the desert region around Zapotitlan Salinas in southern Puebla, Mexico. The original description of this species was based on 2 specimens. We report on morphological variation, sexual dimorphism, and distribution based on 4 additional specimens. Males have 218-223 ventrals, 43-48 subcaudals, and 24-30 black body rings

females have 235-242 ventrals, 37-39 subcaudals, and 29-30 black body rings. This new material was collected at localities within the Zapotitlan Basin. The coralsnake most similar to M. pachecogili seems to be M. nebularis, which is restricted to pine-oak forest near Ixtlan de Juárez in central Oaxaca. Micrurus nebularis is easily distinguished in having fewer ventrals (203-208 in males and 218-223 in females).