Checkered Keelback: Identification, Habitat and Ecological Role

Introduction: The checkered keelback is a non-venomous freshwater snake commonly found in wetlands, ponds, lakes and other aquatic habitats across the Indian subcontinent.

Key pointers

  • Scientific name: Fowlea piscator; older literature commonly uses Xenochrophis piscator.

  • Family: Colubridae under commonly used classifications.

  • Common name: Checkered keelback or Asiatic water snake.

  • Habitat: Ponds, lakes, marshes, paddy fields, canals and other freshwater environments.

  • Identification: Often displays a distinctive chequered pattern of dark markings on the body.

  • Diet: Fish, frogs, tadpoles and other small aquatic animals.

  • Behaviour: Frequently encountered near water and may dive or escape into water when disturbed.

  • Ecological role: Helps regulate populations of small aquatic vertebrates.

  • Human interaction: May be mistaken for venomous snakes because of its defensive behaviour, but it is considered non-venomous to humans.

  • Conservation concerns: Wetland loss, water pollution and road mortality can affect populations.

UPSC focus: The checkered keelback is a non-venomous, water-associated snake. Distinguish it from venomous aquatic snakes such as sea snakes.