Which sea snake has the broadest distribution of any snake species?

The yellow-bellied sea snake has the broadest distribution of any snake species.

Its scientific name is Hydrophis platurus, and it is easily recognized by its strongly contrasting dark upper body and yellow underside. Unlike many sea snakes that remain near particular coastlines or reefs, this species lives in open tropical and subtropical ocean waters.

Ocean currents can carry yellow-bellied sea snakes far from land, helping explain their exceptionally wide range across the Indian and Pacific oceans. Their flattened, paddle-like tails provide propulsion, while the body shape is adapted for marine life rather than terrestrial crawling.

The species is venomous and feeds mainly on fish. It is not the same animal as a sea krait, which generally returns to land and has a more laterally flattened tail. “Widest distribution” refers to geographic range, not the largest population or longest body.