Pailsus Gen. Nov.

Type species: Pailsus pailsei sp. nov.

Diagnosis (Genus): Large venomous elapids, believed to be most closely related to the King Brown Snakes (Genus Pseudechis, sometimes called Cannia), to which both may eventually be assigned as cogeneric (of the same genus). These snakes are thought to reach about 1-1.5 metres in maximum adult length. Specimens in excess of 2 metres are probably rare.

Currently known only from the Mount Isa area in Queensland. May be distinguished from Pseudechis australis in the same area by the fact that most if not all subcaudals are single while in Pseudechis australis, about 20 posterior subcaudals are usually divided. Further separated from Pseudechis australis by the proportionately smaller and less broad head and generally more gracile build. Separated from Pseudonaja by the all or mainly single subcaudals versus the all or mainly paired subcaudals in Pseudonaja and lack of orange or brown markings on the ventral surface in Pailsus. Pailsus is not likely to be confused with any other genus of snake.

Etymology: Named after Roy Pails of Ballarat, Victoria; (refer to species pailsei).