New Venomous Snake Species ‘Trimeresurus lii’ Discovered in Sichuan, China

A new venomous snake species named ‘Trimeresurus lii’ has been discovered in Sichuan Province, China. Previously mistaken for a common species, DNA analysis has confirmed it as a distinct evolutionary lineage, with head characteristics setting it apart from other species. This snake was found in the Mount Emei and Siguniang Snow Mountain regions of Sichuan, highlighting the possibility of many more undiscovered species within this biodiversity hotspot.

In the misty mountains of Sichuan, a bright green venomous pit viper has been hiding for decades. Scientists have now confirmed it as an entirely new species. Earlier, it was overlooked as a common species due to its resemblance, but recent DNA analysis has distinguished it as unique. Published in the journal Zoosystematics and Evolution, this research suggests many more unknown species may inhabit the surveyed areas.

Researchers from the Chengdu Institute of Biology and the Giant Panda National Park have named the new species ‘Trimeresurus lii’, or the ‘Huaxi Green Pit Viper’, in honor of the ancient Chinese philosopher Laozi. Laozi’s philosophy emphasizes harmonious coexistence between humans and nature, aligning well with conservation efforts in the national park where the snake was discovered.

For decades, this snake was mistaken for the common bamboo pit viper because of its similar green coloration. However, detailed genetic tests have confirmed it as a distinct evolutionary branch. Morphologically, its head scales differ noticeably from related species. The newly identified species also exhibits clear sexual dimorphism: both males and females have a bright green body, but males feature dark red and white stripes along the sides and amber-colored eyes, whereas females display pale yellow stripes and orange-yellow eyes. Measuring nearly 80 centimeters in length, this highly venomous snake can cause severe illness if it bites a person.

Found in the moist forest areas of Mount Emei and Siguniang Snow Mountain in Sichuan, one of the world’s richest biodiversity regions, this discovery underscores the vast unknown biological wealth still remaining. According to team leader Bo Kai, the finding confirms that many unknown species await discovery even in long-explored regions. Scientists emphasize the importance of ongoing field surveys in biodiversity hotspots to continue uncovering such hidden species.