When other snake families were formerly included within the Lamprophiidae, they were considered even more diverse in biology, although this is now known to not be the case.

The following classification follows Pyron et al., 2010,[3] whose finding that lamprophiids are more closely related to elapids has been repeated by several other studies.

In fact, some studies have found that Elapidae is nested within Lamprophiidae,[6][7] a finding that necessitated taxonomic changes to restore monophyly within Elapoidea.

[9][8] Some members of the Lamprophiidae, such as the African house snake (genus Boaedon) are kept and bred as pets by herpetoculturists.

Due to their placid nature, classification as nonvenomous snakes, easy care requirements, and small size, many of the species that are bred in captivity are considered by many to be a perfect pet reptile for novices and experienced reptile keepers alike.