TAXONOMIC COMPOSITION OF THE Rhabdophis subminiatus (SCHLEGEL, 1837) SPECIES COMPLEX (REPTILIA: NATRICIDAE) WITH THE DESCRIPTION OF A NEW SPECIES FROM CHINA

The systematics of Rhabdophis subminiatus (Schlegel, 1837) at subspecies level has long proved to be controversial. We analyse the variation selected morphological characters in 179 specimens from populations covering whole range R. sensu lato. Based on this review, we recognize four groups, which two do not agree with current definitions and distributions currently recognized s. subminiatus. “northernmost group” agrees definition Natrix helleri Schmidt, 1925. In contrast, “southernmost syntypes Tropidonotus here restrict species Sunda Region. also discuss a previous designation lectotype T. subminiatus, consider invalid, make it valid sense Code. Furthermore, our analysis allows us define third group that is widespread Indochinese Region Malayan Peninsula. For geographically “central group”, name subminiata siamensis Mell, 1931, available. therefore resurrect taxon its synonymy designate agreement requirements Lastly, fourth level, endemic Hainan Island, China, describe as new species. This division into groups coherent phylogenetic analyses recently published literature. modify taxonomic status hongkongensis 1931 (Rhabdophis) laobaoensis Bourret, 1934, now regarded synonyms siamensis, respectively.