New, mysterious jet-black tree snake species discovered in Papua New Guinea

Rare Black Tree Snake Found on Papua New Guinea Island (Representative Image: Canva)

Spotting a snake isn’t uncommon—unless it gleams like black glass. While exploring a remote island near Papua New Guinea, researchers stumbled upon a snake so dark and sleek, it appeared almost unreal. Its jet-black scales and large, glossy eyes left the team stunned and eager to investigate further.

Discovery on a Human-Altered Island

The reptile, henceforth referred to as Dendrelaphis atra, was found slithering over the site of an abandoned building. Located on a mining island along the southeastern coast, the snake caught attention because of its neatly black-hued body. It is approximately four feet in length and is part of a category of tree-habitation snakes usually hard to categorise.

This snake was officially described by Fred Kraus of the University of Michigan Ann Arbor. He found the animal while conducting a more extensive survey of snakes in the Milne Bay Province. Kraus saw one specimen in a highly disturbed habitat, contributing to the surprise of its discovery in a developed area.

The species exhibits a phenomenon known as ontogenetic melanisation. Juvenile snakes have lighter colors, but they become much darker with age. A juvenile was greyish, providing stark contrast to its inky adult counterpart.

Why Dendrelaphis atra Is Different

Many members of its genus show bands or lighter markings. This one, however, has a almost black solid skin as it matures. That extreme contrast allowed scientists to define it as a different species from the D. punctulatus group. Characteristics such as scale pattern and body shape further verified its distinct identity.

The Latin word for "black" is the origin of the name "Atra". Such a title proves fitting for a snake of such vibrant colour. Scientists employ such physical characteristics, combined with reproductive biology, to distinguish new species with accuracy.

A Region Rich with Hidden Life

Papua New Guinea already hosts over 80 identified species of snakes. Its islands offshore provide distinct habitats with unknown animals. It appears that every large island within the Milne Bay Province has its own breed of Dendrelaphis snakes.

Kraus' own research revealed three additional species during his in-field research—each discovered on a different island. These discoveries point to how isolation in islands creates new species that develop in virtual isolation.

While the black tree snake was discovered in an area of disturbance, many of its brethren probably inhabit more inaccessible places. Surveys are made difficult by the rugged nature of the area and changing weather patterns. Even a single confirmed sighting, however, is highly valuable in marking the region's biodiversity.

Looking Ahead

The full lifestyle of D. atra remains a mystery. Scientists have yet to understand its diet, breeding habits, or movement patterns. Such insights require long-term observation and seasonal data collection.

Kraus believes many more reptiles and amphibians remain hidden across the Milne Bay islands. Ongoing studies could reveal how these animals handle environmental change, and guide future conservation efforts.

The snake find highlights the value of working in coordination with local communities. Most of them might already be aware of such animals from experience. Their expertise, in conjunction with conventional research, could reveal even more secrets in plain sight.

The research has been published in the journal Zootaxa.