This monographic treatment offers all the basic knowledge about New World venomous coral snakes. It gives full descriptions and keys for identification of all the species and subspecies, with maps of distribution and variation. Also included are morphology, anatomy, colour patterns, and folklore. The biology and evolution section includes ecology, food and feeding, reproduction, enemies and defense, biogeography and evolution, with special reference to mimicry and cannibalism. The section on venoms and snakebite surveys characteristics and effects of venom and discusses snakebite accidents, first aid, and remedies.

Part 1 General Information: Overview. Part 2 Form and Distinguishing Features: External Features; Internal Features. Part 3 Biology and Evolution: Ecology; Feeding and Food; Reproduction; Enemies and Defense; Mimicry - Imitation Fellowships; Biogeography, Origin and Evolution. Part 4 Venoms and Snakebite: Venoms in Biology and Their Value; Studies of Coral Snake Venom; Chemical and Biological Characteristics of Venom; Coral Snake Bite Accidents. Part 5 Identification, Description and Distribution By Countries: Identification; Description of Species and Subspecies with Keys to the Subspecies; Distribution by Countries. Appendices: Scientific and Common Names of Coral Snakes; Summary of the Composition of Coral Snake Venom.