Thomas the Krait

Origin:

Fiji & Pacific

Information about this animal

The Yellow-lipped Sea Krait (Laticauda colubrina), also known as the Banded Sea Krait, is a highly venomous marine snake found in the Indo-Pacific region, including around Fiji. This species is notable for its distinctive blue-grey body with black bands and a yellow snout, which gives it the common name "yellow-lipped."

Unlike most sea snakes, the Yellow-lipped Sea Krait is semi-aquatic, meaning it spends time both in the water and on land. It is often found in coral reefs and coastal areas where it hunts for prey, primarily eels and small fish. After feeding in the ocean, it returns to land to rest, digest food, and lay eggs. The species is known for being relatively docile and poses little threat to humans unless provoked.

Although its venom is highly potent and capable of paralyzing prey, the sea krait rarely bites humans, and most encounters result in the snake fleeing rather than attacking. The Yellow-lipped Sea Krait plays a significant role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems, especially in coral reefs, by regulating fish populations. Their presence around Fiji and other Pacific islands contributes to the biodiversity of these marine environments.

Where to find me

Locate where I am here

Section: Aquarium
Zoo Area: West End
Path Name: Mermaid Alley

Special things you should know

01

What do they eat?

The Yellow-lipped Sea Krait has a specialized diet, primarily consisting of eels and small fish found in coral reefs. Its hunting strategy involves diving deep into crevices in search of prey. Equipped with potent venom, the krait immobilizes its prey with a single bite before consuming it whole. Despite its highly venomous nature, it poses little threat to humans and is more likely to flee than attack. In captivity, the Yellow-lipped Sea Krait is fed a diet that mimics its natural feeding habits, typically small fish and marine life, ensuring it receives the nutrients necessary for its health and well-being.

02

Behavior

The Yellow-lipped Sea Krait is a semi-aquatic species, spending time both in the water and on land. It is primarily nocturnal, hunting its prey in the dark when fish and eels are most active. Remarkably, this snake can stay underwater for up to 30 minutes, using its paddle-like tail for swimming. After feeding, the krait returns to shore, often seeking out rocky areas or crevices where it can rest and digest its meal. On land, it moves awkwardly due to its aquatic adaptations but takes advantage of the land for reproductive purposes, as it lays eggs in sheltered areas.

03

Conservation Status

The Yellow-lipped Sea Krait is currently listed as "Least Concern" on the IUCN Red List. While its population is stable, this species faces potential threats from habitat degradation, particularly in coral reef ecosystems, which are sensitive to climate change and human activity. Pollution and habitat destruction in coastal areas can also affect their natural habitats. Conservation efforts focus on preserving coral reefs and ensuring clean, healthy marine environments. As a species critical to marine biodiversity, continued conservation efforts are vital to ensure the long-term survival of the Yellow-lipped Sea Krait.

04

Interesting Facts

Despite its highly venomous bite, the Yellow-lipped Sea Krait is incredibly docile and rarely poses a threat to humans. In fact, most bites occur when the snake is accidentally provoked or handled.
The Yellow-lipped Sea Krait is unique among sea snakes because it spends significant time on land, often returning to shore to rest and lay eggs, unlike fully aquatic sea snakes.
This snake is a powerful swimmer and can dive to depths of up to 100 meters while hunting its prey.
Its venom is so potent that it can paralyze prey almost instantly, yet the snake often avoids confrontation with larger predators or humans.
The Yellow-lipped Sea Krait can hold its breath for up to 30 minutes, making it an efficient hunter in coral reef ecosystems.