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Issue: Vol. 43 No. 3: 22 Dec. 2025
Type: Article
Published: 2025-12-22
DOI: 10.11646/bionomina.43.3.1
Page range: 34-44
Abstract views: 151
PDF downloaded: 1

Historical literature suggests a Sri Lankan origin for the etymology of the snake generic names Duberria Fitzinger, 1826 and Malpolon Fitzinger, 1826 (Reptilia, Serpentes)

Wild Island Foundation; 6A; Idama; Mendis Lane; Moratuwa; Sri Lanka
Reptilia Nomenclature Duberria Malpolon etymology history type species Sri Lanka

Abstract

The snake genera Duberria and Malpolon, both established by Leopold Fitzinger in the 19th century, have long presented uncertainties regarding their etymological origins. Herein, I discuss the possibility that these generic names were sourced from historical literature dating back to the 17th century and were derived from the Sinhala language, indicating a potential Sri Lankan origin. Additionally, I review the taxonomic and nomenclatural status of the names as presented in those earlier works, highlighting linguistic discrepancies, relevant remarks, and their standing under the current International Code of Zoological Nomenclature. A type species for the genus Duberria is here validly designated for the first time.

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