Phylogeny and morphology of the Australian snake genus Neelaps Günther, 1863 (Squamata: Elapidae), with resurrection of Narophis Worrell, 1961

Abstract

Recent phylogenetic studies have shown that the affinities of the two currently recognised species of Neelaps Günther, 1863, Neelaps bimaculatus (Duméril, Bibron & Duméril, 1854) and Neelaps calonotos (Duméril, Bibron & Duméril, 1854), are unresolved. Here we provide an expanded molecular phylogeny and new morphology data to clarify generic boundaries. We did not find support for monophyly of Neelaps, confirming previous evidence. As a consequence, we allocate bimaculatus to the available synonym Narophis Worrell, 1961 and restrict calonotos to Neelaps, forming two monotypic genera. We redescribe both species under this revised classification. Neelaps calonotos adds to the list of endemic monotypic vertebrates in southwestern Western Australia, recognised globally as a biodiversity hotspot, and we comment on the name spelling, type specimens and conservation status of this distinctive species.