Which snake genus is known for the boomslang?
Answer
Dispholidus
Answer
Dispholidus
The snake genus known for the boomslang is Dispholidus.
The boomslang is the sole living species in its genus, Dispholidus typus. It is an African tree-dwelling snake found in much of sub-Saharan Africa. The name boomslang comes from Afrikaans and means “tree snake,” describing its arboreal habits.
Boomslangs are rear-fanged snakes in the family Colubridae. Their large eyes, slender body, and keeled scales help distinguish them from many other African snakes. They spend much of their time in shrubs and trees, where they hunt chameleons, birds, eggs, and other small prey.
The species is medically important because its hemotoxic venom can interfere with blood clotting. Serious bites are uncommon because boomslangs are generally shy, and venom delivery is associated with prolonged or effective bites. The boomslang should not be confused with the green mamba, another African tree snake from a different genus and family.
Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Sept. 2026