We analyzed geographic variation in external morphology of the endemic Baja California Nightsnake, Eridiphas slevini. Recently, the subspecies from Isla San Marcos (Eridiphas slevini marcosensis) was elevated to specific status based on the original description of only two specimens. Our results reveal complete overlap in characters used to diagnose Eridiphas marcosensis. Thus, we recognize only one species: Eridiphas slevini. Previously observed variation is explained by a latitudinal trend, with females attaining a higher ventral-scale count at the northern end of the species range. We also examined museum specimens for stomach contents and review the literature for dietary records of this rare snake.
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1 September 2003
Geographic Variation in the Baja California Nightsnake (Eridiphas slevini), with Comments on Taxonomy and Diet
Daniel G. Mulcahy,
Mikala A. Archibald
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