Evidence of venom variability associated with venom extraction interval in the monocled cobra (Naja kaouthia)

Posted by
  Evidence of venom variability associated with venom extraction interval in the monocled cobra (Naja kaouthia) Abstract Snake venom variability is a critical factor in antivenom production. Although several influencing factors have been studied, the impact of extraction interval on venom properties remains poorly understood. This study evaluated the effects of various extraction intervals on venom yield, the percentage of dry weight (%Dw), and composition in the monocled cobra ( Naja kaouthia ). Twenty-five captive snakes were randomly allocated to five groups, each undergoing a control extraction followed by a repeated extraction at 1, 4, 7, 10, or 14 days. Venom profiles were characterized using reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) and Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Results indicated that while fresh venom yield remained stable across all intervals, %Dw significantly decreased in extractions performed between 1 and 10 days, ...

Two new species of Kiekie Polotow & Brescovit, 2018 (Araneae: Ctenidae) from the highlands of Panama

Posted by

 



Two new species of Kiekie Polotow & Brescovit, 2018 (Araneae: Ctenidae) from the highlands of Panama


Abstract

Two new species, Kiekie almae sp. n. and K. dietrichi sp. n. are described based on both sexes collected in highlands of Central America (Panama). Live males and females of both species were photographed in situ. A distribution map of all Panamanian Kiekie species is given based on new and literature-derived records.