Xenopholis


Xenopholis is a genus of rear-fanged snakes of the family Colubridae.

Geographic range

The genus Xenopholis is endemic to South America.

Description

The genus Xenopholis is characterized by distinctive vertebrae. The spinous processes are expanded dorsally, forming shields which are rugose and divided by a median groove.

Species

Three species are recognized as being valid.
Nota bene: A binomial authority in parentheses indicates that the species was originally described in a genus other than Xenopholis.