The Stokes’ Sea Snake is one of a number of serpents that spends its entire life in the ocean. Growing to a length of around 1.5 metres, the snake has a paddle-like tail that helps it to swim, and a thick, but laterally flattened body that gives it an eel-like appearance. This highly toxic snake does not have gills and must come to the surface to breathe. The head is large and triangular-shaped, with the nostrils located on top of the snout.

Habitat

In Australia, the Stokes’ Sea Snake inhabits waters off the northern and eastern coasts. The species also inhabits the Indian Ocean, China Sea, Gulf of Thailand and waters around Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines. Most sea snake species prefer shallow waters close to land, but some have been known to swim 160 kms out to sea.

Diet

The snake feeds on small fish and eels, which are quickly immobilised by the snake’s venom.

Behaviour

Like many other marine snake species, the Stokes’ Sea Snake is fully adapted for life in the ocean and has difficulty moving on land. Although toxic, they are not generally aggressive and rarely strike in conflict. Sea snakes are active both during the day and at night, and they can sometimes be seen on the surface basking in sunlight. When disturbed they can dive as deep as 90 metres and can remain below water for two or more hours, depending on their ability to conserve activity.

Reproduction

All sea snakes (with the exception of one species) are ovoviviparous, meaning that eggs develop inside the mother’s body up to the point of hatching. The young are born underwater and must immediately swim to the surface to breathe. There is no parental care.

Lifespan

The lifespan of the Stokes’ Sea Snake is not comprehensively reported.

Threats & Conservation Status

The Stokes’ Sea Snake is not listed as vulnerable, however some cultures exploit sea snakes for their skin, meat and internal organs.

More Amazing Facts

• Sea snakes have one long, cylindrical lung that extends for almost the entire length of their body, making it very efficient for gas exchange.
• Snakes can “breathe” underwater by carrying out cutaneous respiration, meaning that oxygen from seawater can be absorbed into their skin and carbon dioxide diffuses out.
• Sea snakes have a special gland under their tongue to help remove salt.
• Like all snakes, sea snakes shed their skin. But they do so more frequently, every two to six weeks, to rid themselves of algae and barnacles.