Treffer: First report of the Black-headed python (Aspidites melanocephalus Krefft, 1864) found in the wild in the Republic of Korea.

As the pet industry continues to grow worldwide, reptile species have become increasingly popular, which has increased the trade of these species. However, as various species are bred, some are discovered in the wild after being lost or abandoned, which can result in ecosystem disturbances. Accordingly, in this study, we report a black-headed python (Aspidites melanocephalus) that was found in the wild for the first time, in the Republic of Korea. At the time of discovery, the deceased python was ascertained to be roadkill, and it appeared to have been killed a few days prior to discovery. The reptile was identified as a black-headed python through its appearance (head color, body stripes, etc.) and DNA analysis. It is suspected that the snake was a lost or abandoned pet. The occurrence of exotic reptiles in the wild may disturb Korean ecosystems. Thus, it is necessary to evaluate the current status of potentially exotic reptiles and improve the management of abandoned animals, especially reptiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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