17-Year-Old High School Student Co-Discovers Fresh Snake Species & Publishes in SCI Journal | Zhejiang, China

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Teenage Herpetologist Co-Discovers New Snake Species in China, Publishes in SCI Journal

A 17-year-old high school student from Linhai, Zhejiang province, is gaining international recognition for his pivotal role in the discovery of a new snake species, officially named Katsenia brachyura – colloquially known as the “chopstick snake” due to its slender build. Hu Jiahao, a student at Lingjiang Middle School, is listed as the second author on a paper detailing the discovery, published March 2nd in the peer-reviewed scientific journal Zoosystematics and Evolution. The finding marks the first new reptile species identified within Zhejiang province since the 20th century, sparking both celebration and online discussion regarding the young researcher’s achievement. Hu’s dedication to the field, combined with the scientific rigor of the research team, highlights the potential for citizen science and the importance of fostering scientific curiosity in young people.

The journey to identify Katsenia brachyura began in October 2024, when experts from the Zhejiang Provincial Forest Resources Monitoring Center discovered a deceased specimen during a wildlife survey in the Kuangcang Mountains near Linhai. Initial morphological comparisons revealed differences between the specimen and the commonly found Huangyalingshan keelback snake (Fowlea flaviventris), suggesting the possibility of a previously undocumented species. However, the damaged condition of the initial find hampered further investigation. The team needed additional, well-preserved samples to confirm their suspicions.

The newly discovered Katsenia brachyura, also known as the “chopstick snake,” is a modest, non-venomous reptile found in the Kuangcang Mountains of Zhejiang province. (Image via IT Home)

A Dedicated Search in Challenging Terrain

Hu Jiahao, a lifelong enthusiast of biological classification, volunteered his assistance upon learning of the potential new species. Recognizing the require for additional specimens, he embarked on a challenging search throughout the summer of 2025, dedicating his free time after completing his coursework to exploring the rugged terrain of the Kuangcang Mountains. For over 40 nights, Hu traversed nearly 100 kilometers of mountainous landscape, meticulously searching for the elusive snake. Initially, he followed the conventional wisdom that snakes are most active after rainfall, but his efforts yielded no results. Adapting his strategy, he shifted his focus to nighttime searches during clear weather, ultimately proving successful.

On the evening of August 17, 2025, Hu’s persistence paid off. While descending the mountain, he encountered a slender snake crossing the road. Recognizing it as the target species, he carefully observed and documented the reptile. This adult female specimen, measuring over 30 centimeters in length and exhibiting a uniform brown coloration, became the holotype – the defining specimen – for Katsenia brachyura. Over the following two months, Hu continued his surveys, locating two additional live specimens and two roadkill individuals, accumulating a total of five crucial samples for analysis. These specimens were then sent to various universities and research institutions for molecular sequencing and morphological analysis.

Image of Hu Jiahao during his research.
Hu Jiahao conducting fieldwork in the Kuangcang Mountains. (Image via IT Home)

Genetic and Morphological Confirmation

Rigorous molecular analysis revealed a significant genetic distance between Katsenia brachyura and its closest relatives, with differences in the CO1 gene fragment ranging from 9.5% to 10.9%. Morphologically, the new species is distinguished by prominent ridges on its dorsal scales and variations in ventral scale count, and coloration. Katsenia brachyura is described as a semi-fossorial, small, non-venomous snake that primarily feeds on earthworms. Adult males typically reach lengths of under 30 centimeters, while females can grow up to 40 centimeters. The snake typically inhabits the leaf litter and under logs of broadleaf forests at elevations between 150 and 900 meters, contributing to its long-term elusiveness.

The research team, led by Xu Yuhao, a master’s student at Qinghai University, emphasized the importance of recognizing the contributions of primary observers in new species descriptions. Xu Yuhao stated that Hu Jiahao’s local knowledge and early identification of live specimens, along with his participation in data collection and manuscript preparation, fully justified his inclusion as a co-author on the published paper. The full research paper is available through the journal Zoosystematics and Evolution, DOI: 10.3897/zse.102.183453.

Image of the snake's habitat.
The natural habitat of Katsenia brachyura within the Kuangcang Mountains. (Image via IT Home)

Addressing Online Speculation and Looking Ahead

The publication of the research and Hu Jiahao’s involvement quickly gained traction online, prompting speculation about his family background and potential connections. Responding to these rumors, Hu clarified that his parents are ordinary individuals and that his success is solely attributable to his passion and dedication. He explained that his interest in wildlife began in elementary school, leading him to participate in wildlife observation activities and independently study relevant literature and scientific papers. He also credited his online connections with experts at the Zhejiang Provincial Forest Resources Monitoring Center for providing guidance and support.

Hu expressed that the experience of discovering a new species has deepened his understanding of the scientific process, emphasizing the need for rigorous logic and continuous validation. This experience has solidified his intention to pursue a career in biology. The discovery of Katsenia brachyura not only adds to our understanding of reptile biodiversity in China but also serves as an inspiring example of how youthful enthusiasm and dedication can contribute to significant scientific advancements. The Kuangcang Mountains, now known to harbor this unique species, may become a focal point for future herpetological research and conservation efforts.

The discovery underscores the importance of continued biodiversity research, particularly in regions with complex and understudied ecosystems. Further research will be needed to determine the population size and distribution of Katsenia brachyura, as well as to assess any potential threats to its survival. The Zhejiang Provincial Forest Resources Monitoring Center is expected to release a comprehensive report on the region’s reptile fauna in the coming months, providing further insights into the biodiversity of the Kuangcang Mountains.

As Hu Jiahao prepares for his upcoming high school exams, his story serves as a powerful reminder that scientific discovery is not limited by age or background. His dedication and passion have not only contributed to our understanding of the natural world but have also inspired a new generation of aspiring scientists. The next step for the research team is to conduct a more thorough population survey of the new species and to investigate its ecological role within the Kuangcang Mountains ecosystem.

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