Leptotyphlops labialis (Damara worm snake, Damara thread
snake)
Damara-erdslangetjie, Damaradraadslangetjie. [Afrikaans]
Life >
Eukaryotes
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Opisthokonta >
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Chordata >
Craniata > Vertebrata (vertebrates) > Gnathostomata (jawed vertebrates) >
Teleostomi (teleost fish) > Osteichthyes (bony fish) > Class:
Sarcopterygii (lobe-finned fish) > Stegocephalia (terrestrial vertebrates) >
Tetrapoda
(four-legged vertebrates) > Reptiliomorpha > Amniota >
Reptilia (reptiles) >
Romeriida > Diapsida > Lepidosauromorpha > Lepidosauria >
Squamata > Serpentes
(snakes) > Family: Leptotyphlopidae > Genus:
Leptotyphlops
Identification
The Damara worm snake can be identified by its small size,
rounded head, highly polished scales and it is entirely fossorial (underground
living). It grows to an average length of 17 cm and a maximum length of 30 cm.
Distribution and habitat
Restricted to north east Namibia. Its favoured
habitat is Namib Desert.
Food
Unknown
Predators, parasites and disease
Eaten by other snakes and
scorpions.
Reproduction
Unknown
Longevity
Unknown.
Medical importance
None.
Links
References
-
Broadley, D.G. 1983. FitzSimons' Snakes of Southern
Africa. Delta Books, Johannesburg.
-
Marais, J. 2004. A Complete Guide to Snakes of
Southern Africa. Struik Publishing, Cape Town.
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