Abstract
The yellow-lipped sea krait (Laticauda colubrina), also known as the colubrine sea krait or banded sea krait, is a venomous marine snake belonging to the family Elapidae and is found in the tropical and subtropical coastal waters of the eastern Indian Ocean, Southeast Asia, and the western Pacific Ocean archipelagos. Due to limitations in geographic distribution, there is a dearth of information about its life history. In this study, detailed information on the life history of L. colubrina is compiled to assess the thrust areas of research. The yellow-lipped sea krait is designated as a schedule II species under India's Wildlife Protection (Amendment) Act 2022. Furthermore, it is imperative to understand the impacts of climate change on their habitats for vulnerability assessments. Additionally, no bite or casualty reports have been confirmed from India. Hence, habitat assessment must be conducted in distributional locations to understand fine-scale spatial overlap and encounter rates between sea snakes and humans. This paper will review the distribution, ecology, and threats to yellow-lipped sea kraits and highlight potential research gaps related to L. colubrina in India.
Author Biographies
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Prachi Hatkar, Wildlife Institute of India
Prachi Hatkar has an MSc in Zoology (Oceanography and Fisheries Science). Currently a PhD candidate at the Maharaja Sayajirao University of Vadodara, Prachi works at the Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, for their Dugong conservation project. She is the first woman from India to receive an international grant for diving certification from the Women Divers Hall of Fame. Her current research studies Dugong habitat assessment in the Gulf Of Kutch, Gujarat. Her research interests include understanding the ecology of endangered species, diversity assessment of marine life, and connections between conservation, ecosystem benefits, and livelihoods. She is a Marine Mammals of India research team member and an IUCN member of the Commission on Education and Communication (CEC) and the World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA). She has published over 17 papers and contributed to 21 technical reports. Her research findings have helped the stakeholders and policymakers to make ground action plans for endangered species.
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Sangik Datta, 217/13 D.L. Khan Road, Alipore, Kolkata-700027
Sangik Datta a passionate and dedicated individual with a fresh perspective on marine biology. As a recent graduate in oceanography, his enthusiasm for the field is palpable, fueled by a deep love for the ocean and its complex ecosystems. During his academic journey, Sangik developed various aspects of marine science, including oceanography, marine ecology, and environmental conservation. Through coursework and fieldwork, he developed a strong foundation in understanding the intricate interplay between marine organisms and the delicate balance of marine ecosystems. While studying, Sangik actively sought opportunities to engage with the marine science community and expand their practical skills. He volunteered as a field assistant for the Wildlife Institute of India.
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Ramesh Chinnasamy, Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun
Dr. C. Ramesh is a faculty members from Wildlife Institute of India,Dehradun. His research interest includes various aspects of ecology, ethology, human – wildlife interactions, climate change, biodiversity conservation and coastal & marine research