We follow Pyron and Burbrink (2009) in the generic placement of this complex, which is represented in the Southwestern region by two taxa. Although a convincing case can be made for placing this complex in its own genus [Scotophis Baird and Girard (Collins and Taggart, 2008)], we feel that retaining it within Pantherophis is currently the more taxonomically conservative stance.
Pantherophis bairdi (Baird's Ratsnake)
Pantherophis obsoletus lindheimeri (Texas Ratsnake) - We feel that this subspecies is sufficiently distinct morphologically to warrant its continued recognition.
Literature Cited
Collins, J.T. & T.W. Taggart. 2008. An alternative classification of the New World Rat Snakes (genus Pantherophis [Reptilia: Squamata: Colubridae]). Journal of Kansas Herpetology 26: 16-18. [PDF]
Pyron, R.A. and F.T. Burbrink. 2009. Neogene diversification and taxonomic stability in the snake tribe Lampropeltini (Serpentes:Colubridae). Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution 52: 524-529. [PDF]
06 Aug 2009
SWCHR Committee on Common and Scientific Names
Tom Lott, Committee Chair
Terry Cox
Riley J. Campbell
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