Australia is known for its distinctive wildlife, with snakes holding a prominent place across its varied landscapes. The significant presence and diversity of these reptiles often lead to questions about their prevalence.
Counting the Species
Australia is home to a substantial number of snake species, reflecting its rich biodiversity. As of 2020, there are 213 known snake species residing across the continent and its surrounding waters. This figure represents the current understanding of Australia’s snake population and refers to distinct biological species, not individual snakes.
Varieties of Australian Snakes
Among the 213 snake species, a notable proportion possess venom. Of the total, 109 terrestrial species and 30 marine species are venomous. This means 139 of Australia’s snake species are venomous, outnumbering the non-venomous types. Despite this high number, only about 12 of these venomous species are considered medically significant, capable of inflicting a bite that could seriously harm humans. The remaining non-venomous species, such as pythons, contribute to the country’s diverse snake population.
Where Snakes Reside
Australian snakes inhabit a wide array of environments across the vast continent. They are found from the tropical northern regions to the more temperate southern areas, thriving in diverse habitats ranging from arid deserts and grasslands to dense forests and coastal fringes. Many species have adapted to specific ecological niches; for example, water snakes frequent freshwater lagoons and swamps, while others like the Common Tree Snake blend into dense vegetation. Snakes are also present in marine environments, with sea snakes occupying various aquatic habitats from muddy estuaries to clear coral reefs. Their distribution is heavily influenced by climate, as these poikilothermic animals rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature.
Factors Behind Australia’s Snake Diversity
Australia’s unique snake diversity is largely a result of its long geological isolation. This separation from other landmasses allowed its fauna to evolve independently, leading to high rates of endemism where over 90% of its reptile species are found nowhere else globally. The continent’s varied climates and extensive range of habitats, from deserts to rainforests, have also provided numerous ecological opportunities for different snake species to evolve and specialize. Evolutionary pressures, such as the availability of specific prey and diverse environmental conditions, have further driven the development of distinct snake populations. These combined geological and biological factors have fostered the rich and unique assemblage of snake species seen in Australia today.