Overview

• The species description was published in Taprobanica on August 5, officially naming the snake Smithophis leptofasciatus and elevating the genus to five known species.
• Authors proposed the Mizo name Ruahrul for the narrow-banded rain snake to honor its local heritage and emphasize regional biodiversity.
• Morphological and molecular analyses revealed the snake’s distinct 11.5% genetic divergence and unique incomplete transverse bands on a glossy black body.
• Field observations showed the snake occupies humid, shaded streamside forests between 900 and 1,200 meters, exhibiting semi-aquatic, nocturnal habits.
• A captive gravid female laid six eggs, offering rare reproductive insights and underscoring the need for targeted surveys to assess its conservation status.