On the Identity and Taxonomic Status of Coluber nuthalli Theobald, 1868, with Redescription of the Type Specimens of Coluber nuthalli and Elaphis yunnanensis Anderson, 1879 (Reptilia, Squamata, Colubridae)

The taxa Coluber nuthalli Theobald, 1868 and Elaphis yunnanensis Anderson, 1879 are compared and re- described, based on the examination of their type material. The morphological similarities of these two taxa revealed them as conspecific. Elaphis yunnanensis Anderson is thus declared as a protected name (nomen conservandum) with priority over C. nuthalli Theobald (nomen oblitum). A lectotype for Elaphis yunnanensis is designated and described. The validity of yunnanensis as subspecies name in combination with Orthriophis taeniurus (Cope) will be discussed. A key to the subspecies of O. taeniurus is provided.