Venomous

Red-necked Keelback For Sale

Rhabdophis subminiatus

The Red-necked Keelback (Rhabdophis subminiatus) is a fascinating semi-aquatic frog-hunter of Thai rice paddies that sequesters toxins from the toads it eats into specialised nuchal glands. Rear-fanged and capable of severe coagulopathy, it flattens its neck to flash warning colour when threatened. A genuinely interesting species, but not one for beginners.

Overview

Adult Length

60 – 100 cm

Venom

Rear-fanged with nuchal glands containing toad-derived bufadienolides. Can cause severe coagulopathy — has caused human fatalities. Treat as medically significant.

In the Wild

Habitat

Semi-aquatic. Rice paddies, stream margins, ponds, marshes, wet forest edges and irrigated agricultural land. 0 – 1,500 m. Found throughout Thailand.

Wild Diet

Frogs, toads, tadpoles & fish. Highly aquatic forager.

Captive Care

Captive Diet

Whole defrosted frogs or fish. Adults every 5 – 7 days. Rarely accepts mice.

Temperature

24 – 28 °C ambient — 22 °C cool end

Humidity

70 – 85 %. Daily misting; large water bowl for soaking essential.

UV Requirements

Low to moderate (diurnal basker). UVI 1.0 – 2.0. Low UVB beneficial.

Enclosure

Semi-aquatic terrestrial. Min 90 × 45 × 45 cm. Permanent shallow water section recommended.

Temperament

Active and alert. Can flatten neck to display warning colouration when threatened. Not for beginners.

Distribution in Thailand

Known regional occurrences across Thailand. Wild-source collection is regulated; all stock is supplied wholesale under CITES-compliant export.

Wholesale Only — Apply for Access

Medusa Reptile Co. supplies the Red-necked Keelback to licensed wholesale buyers and importers via air cargo from Thailand. Minimum order quantities apply.

Apply for Wholesale Access

Export is conducted strictly under CITES permits and Thai wildlife law. We do not sell to the general public.