The Malayan pit viper (Calloselasma rhodostoma) is a venomous snake found across Southeast Asia, with a stable population trend and Least Concern conservation status according to a global IUCN assessment.
Geographic Distribution Across Southeast Asia
The global IUCN assessment records the Malayan pit viper as native and extant in Cambodia, Indonesia (Java), Laos, Peninsular Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam. Across these regions, the snake occurs from sea level up to 700 metres in elevation.
Metalloproteinases Dominate Pit Viper Venom Transcripts
Venom-gland transcriptomic research has identified 314 toxin transcripts belonging to 22 distinct toxin gene families in Calloselasma rhodostoma. Snake venom metalloproteinase (SVMP) is the most abundant toxin family, accounting for 61.31% of total toxin FPKM. Within this group, kistomin and zinc metalloproteinase/disintegrin proteins show 100% database identity.
Snake venom C-type lectin-like proteins (Snaclec) represent the second most abundant family at 12.38%, led by the rhodocetin subunit beta. Snake venom serine proteases (SVSP) form the third major group at 11.58%, featuring thrombin-like enzymes such as ancrod-2.
Dietary Association With Geographical Venom Variation
Research demonstrates a close association between geographical venom variation in Calloselasma rhodostoma and local diet. While rodents form the primary prey, frogs, lizards, and occasional birds are also consumed.
Clinical Effects of Envenomation
As a medically important haemotoxic species, Calloselasma rhodostoma is associated with local and systemic effects following envenomation.
Pit Vipers Maintain Stable Global Populations
The global IUCN assessment categorizes the Malayan pit viper’s population trend as stable and notes that the species is not severely fragmented. The species persists in these environments by utilizing both natural forest patches and cultivated areas that harbor rodent populations, and it is documented within at least one protected area.
Common Questions About the Malayan Pit Viper
What countries are included in the Malayan pit viper’s native range?
The global IUCN assessment records the species in Cambodia, Indonesia (Java), Laos, Peninsular Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam.
How high above sea level does the species live?
The IUCN assessment records the Malayan pit viper at elevations ranging from 0 to 700 metres.
Which toxin family is most abundant in its venom?
Snake venom metalloproteinase (SVMP) is the most abundant toxin family, accounting for 61.31% of total toxin FPKM in venom-gland transcriptomic research.
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