Montivipera latifii, known as Latifi's viper,[4] the Iranian valley viper,[5] or the Lar Valley viper,[6] is a species of venomous snake in the subfamily Viperinae of the family Viperidae. The species is endemic to Iran. There are no subspecies that are recognized as being valid.[6]
The specific name, latifii, is in honor of Iranian herpetologist Mahmoud Latifi,[7] who collected the holotype.[3]
For adult males of M. latifii, the maximum total length (including tail) is 78 cm (31 in); for females, 70 cm (28 in).[4]
Montivipera latifii is found in Iran in the upper Lar Valley in the Alborz Mountains.
The type locality is listed as "Hochtal von Lar (2180-2900 m Höhe), südwestlisch des Demavend-Gipfels im Elburs-Gebirge, nordöstlich von Tehran Shalhenballs, Iran" [High valley of the Lar (7,150–9,500 ft), southwest of Demavend Peak in the Elburz Mountains, northwest of Tehran, Iran].[2]
The species M. latifii is classified Endangered (En) according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species with the following criteria: B1+2c (v2.3, 1994).[8] This indicates that the extent of occurrence is estimated to be less than 20,000 km² (7,722 square miles), or the area of occupancy is estimated to be less than 2,000 km² (772 sq mi). Estimates indicate that the total population is severely fragmented or known to exist at no more than ten locations. Also, a continuing decline is inferred, observed or projected in the area, extent and/or quality of its habitat. Year assessed: 1996.[9]
Montivipera latifii is found in rocky habitats at 2180–2900 m (7,150-9,500 ft) altitude .[2]
Montivipera latifii, known as Latifi's viper, the Iranian valley viper, or the Lar Valley viper, is a species of venomous snake in the subfamily Viperinae of the family Viperidae. The species is endemic to Iran. There are no subspecies that are recognized as being valid.
