Taxonomic status of Apostolepis tertulianobeui Lema, 2004 based on an integrative revision of Apostolepis assimilis (Reinhardt, 1861) (Serpentes: Dipsadidae)

Abstract

Abstract Apostolepis is a diverse Dipsadid snake genus, with 35 known species, inhabiting most of South America at east of the Andes. In this study, we redescribe Apostolepis assimilis Reinhardt, 1861 , and evaluate the taxonomic status of a controversial taxon, Apostolepis tertulianobeui, described based on a single specimen from an unknown locality of Minas Gerais state, southeastern Brazil. A careful reanalysis of the type specimen and additional material provides compelling evidence for the synonymy of A. tertulianobeui with A. assimilis. We also provide comments on the taxonomy of Apostolepis, osteological and hemipenial descriptions, and a species distribution modelling for A. assimilis.