Carib Coralsnake

Micrurus psyches is medium-sized for its genus. Adults usually have a total length (tail included) of 45–60 cm (18–24 in). The maximum recorded total length is 91 cm (36 in). Like many New World coral snakes, the color pattern consists of red, white (or yellow), and black rings, with the black rings not arranged in triads. Unlike most New World coral snakes, the red rings are very dark, appearing dark brown, purplish, or even black. The "red" rings are 3–7 dorsals and ventrals wide. The white rings are only one dorsal and ventral wide. The black rings are 3–4 dorsals and ventrals wide. Males have 22–29 black rings on the body, and females have 27–41. Males have 188–196 ventrals and 44–49 subcaudals, and lack supraanal tubercles. Females have 203–212 ventrals and 30–33 subcaudals. The dorsal scales are arranged in 15 rows at midbody, and the anal plate is divided.

Specimens of Micrurus psyches have been identified in northern Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname, and southeastern Venezuela.