Researchers have identified a new venomous pitviper species in the misty mountains of western Sichuan, China, previously mistaken for a common snake. Named Trimeresurus lii after the philosopher Laozi, the Huaxi Green Pitviper features distinct markings and eye colors between males and females. DNA analysis confirmed its unique evolutionary lineage in a global biodiversity hotspot.
A team from the Chengdu Institute of Biology and Giant Panda National Park discovered the Huaxi Green Pitviper while surveying wildlife in the West China Rain Zone. Initially thought to be the bamboo pitviper, Trimeresurus stejnegeri, the snakes revealed themselves as distinct through genetic testing and physical examination, including smooth head scales. This marks the 58th species in the Trimeresurus genus and the second from its subgenus in Sichuan Province. The species can reach nearly 80 centimeters in length and inhabits humid forests around Mt. Emei and Xiling Snow Mountain. Researchers named it Trimeresurus lii to honor Li Er, known as Laozi. The lead researcher, Bo Cai, explained: The specific name lii honors Li Er, the ancient Chinese philosopher better known as Laozi. His teachings emphasize the harmonious coexistence between humans and nature, a principle that perfectly aligns with the conservation mission of the Giant Panda National Park where this species was discovered. Males boast a bold red and white stripe along their sides and amber eyes, while females have a yellow stripe and orange-yellow eyes, both sharing a vivid green body that camouflages them in lush surroundings. As a venomous snake in areas overlapping human activity, it poses potential risks to locals and visitors. The finding, detailed in Zoosystematics and Evolution, underscores ongoing discoveries in well-explored regions. The research team stated: This discovery highlights the importance of continued field surveys in biodiversity hotspots.