On the Occurrence of Rhabdophis leonardi (Wall, 1923) in Vietnam and Laos, with Preliminary Comments on the Taxonomy and Distribution of the Complex of Rhabdophis nuchalis (Squamata: Serpentes: Natricidae)

Abstract

The species Rhabdophis leonardi (Wall, 1923) is recorded for the first time from Vietnam (Lao Cai Province) based on the re-examination of specimens deposited in the collections of the Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle (Paris) which were formerly identified as Rhabdophis nuchalis. Furthermore, we also re-evaluate the taxonomy and distribution of species of the complex Rhabdophis nuchalis group and we provide an updated identification key to species of this complex.