Acute gonadal toxicity induced by Bothrops atrox venom in mice

Posted by
  Acute gonadal toxicity induced by Bothrops atrox venom in mice Abstract Bothrops atrox is responsible for most snakebite incidents in the Amazon region. Its venom is recognized for causing significant tissue damage and systemic effects. However, its effect on reproductive organs remains poorly explored. This study aimed to investigate the acute effects of B. atrox venom on testes and ovaries of adult mice. Male and female mice were exposed to B. atrox venom (½ LD 50 ) via four administration routes subcutaneous (SC), intramuscular (IM), intravenous (IV), and intraperitoneal (IP), followed by comprehensive assessment of gonadal histology, sperm function, oxidative stress biomarkers, antioxidant enzyme activities, and mRNA expression of inflammatory and apoptotic markers. Following B. atrox venom exposure, ovarian histological architecture remained preserved across all routes, whereas testicular tissue exhibited route-dependent injury ranging from moderate luminal apoptosis aft...

From lawns to meadows: spiders (Arachnida: Araneae) as indicators to measure urban grassland restoration success

Posted by

 

From lawns to meadows: spiders (Arachnida: Araneae) as indicators to measure urban grassland restoration success

Abstract

In the present study, we investigate how spiders can be used to assess the effectiveness of restoring mesic grasslands on former urban lawns. We compile and analyze a comprehensive dataset, including both past and current data, focusing on the Aachen region. By systematically examining this data, we identify various indicators using different analytical methods. This approach allows us to distinguish distinct species communities, making them useful as diagnostic tools at various stages of habitat development. Additionally, we identify further parameters that are essential for evaluating meadow restoration in urban settings. We highlight the crucial importance of understanding the local species repertoire, as this knowledge is vital for setting realistic benchmarks for restoration projects.

Bach, A., Jedamski, J., Daniels, B. et al. From lawns to meadows: spiders (Arachnida: Araneae) as indicators to measure urban grassland restoration success. Urban Ecosyst 28, 1–14 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11252-024-01626-x