Researchers have uncovered a new and distinct snake species in the Hejaz region of Saudi Arabia.
#### Discovery of Rhynchocalamus hejazicus
– **Distinctive Features:** Rhynchocalamus hejazicus is characterized by its small size, black collar, and reddish coloration, setting it apart from its closest relatives. Additionally, a uniformly black “melanistic morphotype” has been identified within the species.
– **Distribution:** This new species fills a significant distribution gap between the Levant and the coastal regions of Yemen and Oman for the genus Rhynchocalamus.
– **Publication:** An international team, led by scientists from the Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos (CIBIO), Portugal, and Charles University, Czech Republic, detailed their discovery in Zoosystematics and Evolution.
#### Habitat and Conservation Status
– **Habitat:** Rhynchocalamus hejazicus thrives in sandy and stony soils with varying vegetation cover, often found in habitats disturbed by human activities.
– **Conservation Status:** Despite its limited known information, the species does not meet the criteria for being categorized as threatened by the IUCN. However, further monitoring and conservation efforts are deemed necessary.
#### Natural History and Behavior
– **Activity Pattern:** The species exhibits mainly nocturnal activity, with all individuals encountered being active at night.
– **Research Gaps:** Despite the discovery, little is known about the natural history and behavior of Rhynchocalamus hejazicus, underscoring the need for continued monitoring and conservation efforts.
#### Collaborative Efforts and Implications
– **Surprising Discovery:** The discovery of this widespread snake species in central-western Saudi Arabia is unexpected and suggests the presence of more undiscovered species in the region.
– **Sampling Efforts:** Intense sampling efforts around the ancient oasis city of AlUla, supported by the Royal Commission for AlUla, have been instrumental in uncovering observations of the new species.
– **Importance of Field Studies:** The intensification of field studies in Saudi Arabia is fostering fruitful collaborations and leading to significant discoveries, highlighting the importance of continued exploration to fully understand species diversity in unexplored areas.
