Final answer:
The snake with the wide geographical range and variability in coloration, exhibiting bright coloration to resemble a local venomous species in one region, is likely a rat snake (Ptyas mucosa). This is an example of Batesian mimicry, and since it is a nonvenomous option among the given choices, the correct answer is C) Rat Snake.
Step-by-step explanation:
The probable identity of the snake in the described scenario would be option C) Rat Snake (Ptyas mucosa). The other options, Indian Cobra (Naja naja), Common Krait (Bungarus caeruleus), and Russell's Viper (Daboia russelii), are all venomous snakes. Rat snakes, like the garter snake mentioned in the provided reference information, are nonvenomous and can display a wide variation in coloration, often mimicking the coloration of venomous species for protective purposes through a process known as Batesian mimicry.
The concept of Batesian mimicry is a survival strategy utilized by nonvenomous species to evade predation by mimicking the appearance of venomous species. The mention of geographical variation in coloration, where one region's snake exhibits bright coloration similar to that of a local venomous snake, supports the hypothesis of mimicry in a nonvenomous species, which aligns with the behavior of certain rat snakes.
According to the information, snakes are a diverse group of reptiles with approximately 3,600 species, which have a carnivorous diet and a wide range of sizes. The fact that all options except for the rat snake are venomous, and the prerequisite that the snake in question is nonvenomous, firmly suggests that the probable identity of the snake is a rat snake. Therefore, the correct option in the final answer is C) Rat Snake (Ptyas mucosa).