Transcriptomic Insights Into the Evolution of Snake Venom: Mechanisms, Diversity, and Adaptation

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  Transcriptomic Insights Into the Evolution of Snake Venom: Mechanisms, Diversity, and Adaptation Abstract Snake venoms are evolutionarily refined biochemical arsenals composed of diverse toxins with complex functional roles in predation, defense, and competition. Over the past 2 decades, transcriptomic approaches have transformed venom research by enabling high-resolution insights into gene expression dynamics, molecular diversity, and the evolutionary mechanisms driving venom variation across lineages. In this review, we present a comprehensive synthesis of snake venom transcriptomics literature and propose a conceptual framework structured around three major axes: (1) gene family expansion through duplication and neofunctionalization; (2) regulatory complexity encompassing transcriptional, posttranscriptional, and epigenetic modulation; and (3) ecological selection pressures shaping venom profiles in response to diet, habitat, and interspecific interactions. We integrate findin...

Phenology of Androctonus australis (Linnaeus, 1758) from the Sahara Desert of Algeria (Scorpiones: Buthidae)

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Phenology of Androctonus australis (Linnaeus, 1758) from the Sahara Desert of Algeria (Scorpiones: Buthidae)

Abstract

With its enormous geographical extent and various ecosystems, Algeria has more than 54 species of scorpions. Among these species, Androctonus australis (Linnaeus, 1758) is the species with the highest medical importance. This study particularly concerned this species' seasonal variation and developmental stages, which were collected from various environments in the Sahara Desert of Algeria. The present study focuses on the annual activity of scorpions (phenology) of A. australis in the region of Ghardaïa. Twelve nocturnal outings at mid-month during 2022 made it possible to collect 208 scorpions. Results allowed us to define the favorable mating season of A. australis that occurs during the autumn period (15th November to 10th August) when climatic conditions are favorable for courtship, which means temperatures relatively low (around 18°C) and winds blowing at a regular speed and constant direction. We also noted that the species develops a winter diapause lasting from 5 to 6 months, covering the whole winter season and a few weeks of spring. During spring and summer, as a result of parturition, a huge number of juveniles are observed.  


Zineb, Souilem & Bissati, Samia & Abdelwahab, Chedad & Linda, Rouari & Sadine, Salah Eddine. (2024). Phenology of Androctonus australis (Linnaeus, 1758) from the Sahara Desert of Algeria (Scorpiones: Buthidae). Biharean Biologist. 18. 83-89.