Eutriorchis

Eutriorchis is a genus of snakes belonging to the family Elapidae. The genus currently contains only one described species, Eutriorchis altistigma, commonly known as the high-scaled burrowing asp. This snake is native to the rainforests of central Africa, with its distribution extending across countries like Cameroon, the Republic of the Congo, and Gabon.

Eutriorchis altistigma is a relatively small elapid, typically reaching lengths of around 40 to 60 centimeters. Its most distinctive feature is its highly keeled dorsal scales, which give it a rough appearance and are thought to aid in burrowing. The coloration of this snake generally ranges from brown to reddish-brown, often with darker, irregular markings along its body. Its underside is typically a lighter, more uniform color.

This species is fossorial, meaning it spends most of its life underground, inhabiting leaf litter and soil. Its diet consists primarily of small invertebrates, such as earthworms and insect larvae, which it likely locates using its keen sense of smell. Due to its secretive nature and subterranean habits, Eutriorchis altistigma is rarely encountered by humans, and much of its behavior and life cycle remains poorly understood. It is considered venomous, as are all members of the Elapidae family, but due to its small size and reclusive nature, it poses little threat to humans.