Large female Banded Sea Krait searching for food.

The banded sea krait (Laticauda colubrina) is a species of venomous sea snake found at the Similan and Surin Islands Marine Parks. The snake is not aggressive as we can observe during the video I shot past season. There are fewer recorded bites from this species compared to other venomous species such as cobras and vipers as it is less aggressive and tends to avoid humans. If they bite, it is usually in self-defence when accidentally grabbed. Many fishermen are bitten each year when they try to clear sea snakes from their nets. Interesting detail, a paddle-like tail. The snake can reach up to 140 cm. In their natural habitat, sea kraits feed primarily on eels, but will occasionally prey on small fishes when they are able to trap them in the crevices of a reef. Because their bodies are larger and can withstand the increased pressure of greater depths, females often hunt in areas not available to the smaller males, which cannot survive at the same depths. Amazing Facts The venom of the sea krait affects both muscles and nerves. It is 10 times more toxic than that of a rattlesnake. Each snake can produce up to 10-15 mg (0.0004-0.0005 oz) of venom. Only a fraction of the amount produced is a lethal dose. It is estimated that the skin of the sea krait absorbs 1/5 of its total oxygen needs and eliminates almost all the carbon dioxide the snake produces. To spot this snake is very common on each live aboard trip offered by Khao Lak Scuba Adventures.