Hook-nosed Sea Snake

The Hook-nosed Sea Snake (Enhydrina schistosa), also known as the Beaked Sea Snake, is indeed the same species. It is one of the most venomous sea snakes and is notable for its distinct beak-like snout and potent venom. Here are the details about this species:

Physical Description:

• Appearance: The Hook-nosed Sea Snake has a stout body with a beak-like or hook-shaped snout, giving it its name. Its coloration is generally gray, olive, or brown with a lighter underbelly and often has dark bands or blotches along its body.
• Size: Adults typically measure between 1 to 1.2 meters (3.3 to 4 feet) in length, although some individuals can reach up to 1.5 meters (5 feet).
• Tail: The tail is laterally flattened and paddle-shaped, which aids in swimming.

Habitat:

• Geographical Range: The Hook-nosed Sea Snake is found in the coastal waters of the Indian Ocean and western Pacific Ocean, including areas such as the Persian Gulf, Bay of Bengal, and Southeast Asia.
• Preferred Habitat: It inhabits shallow coastal waters, estuaries, river mouths, and occasionally freshwater rivers. It prefers muddy or sandy substrates.

Conservation:

• Status: The Hook-nosed Sea Snake is not currently considered endangered and is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. However, it faces threats from habitat destruction, pollution, and accidental capture in fishing nets.
• Protection: Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation, reducing bycatch, and raising awareness about the ecological role of sea snakes.

Importance:

• Ecological Role: The Hook-nosed Sea Snake plays a vital role in marine ecosystems by controlling populations of fish and other prey species.
• Human Interaction: Although its venom is extremely toxic, bites to humans are rare and typically occur when the snake is accidentally captured or provoked. Immediate medical attention is necessary in case of a bite due to the severity of the venom.