Black snakes

The black snake genus includes the large Mulga or King Brown snake (Pseudechis australis) and the red-bellied black snake (P. porphyriacus), as well as Collett's snake (P. colletti), the blue-bellied black snake (P. guttatus) and the Papuan black snake (P. papuanis).

The Papuan black snake is found in south-western Papua New Guinea. Its numbers are thought to be in decline, possibly as a result of the introduction of the cane toad (Bufo marinus) into its habitat. It lives in swampy areas of the southern coastal lowlands of PNG, where it feeds on small mammals and frogs. It is usually a uniform glossy black, but may be dark brown. It is solidly built, with a large, flat head. The length ranges from 2.1 to 2.4m. It is oviparous. The papuan black snake is said to be of a nervous disposition, avoiding human contact, but will strike aggressively if cornered. Average venom yield is around 200mg, maximum 494mg. The venom produces coagulopathy, neurotoxicity and haemolysis. The antivenom of choice is black snake antivenom.