Interspecific and Intraspecific Variation in Venom Proteomics, Composition, and Antivenom Efficacy of Thai Cobras (Naja spp.): Highlighting the Distinct Profile of the Newly Identified Naja fuxi

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  Interspecific and Intraspecific Variation in Venom Proteomics, Composition, and Antivenom Efficacy of Thai Cobras (Naja spp.): Highlighting the Distinct Profile of the Newly Identified Naja fuxi Abstract Cobras ( Naja  spp.) account for a significant number of snakebite incidents in Thailand. The monocled cobra ( Naja kaouthia ) has historically been considered the only non-spitting species, but recent evidence indicates population-level diversification in central and southern regions. Additionally, a newly described non-spitting species, the mountain cobra ( Naja fuxi ), has been identified in mountainous areas. This study investigates venom variation among Thai  Naja  species and populations and evaluates the efficacy of monovalent and polyvalent Thai antivenoms. Proteomic analyses revealed that three-finger toxins dominate  Naja  venoms, whereas  N. fuxi  exhibits a distinct profile enriched in snake venom metalloproteinases and cysteine-rich...

First record of Latrodectus hesperus Chamberlin & Ivie, 1935, Western Black Widow (Araneae, Theridiidae), in Slovakia

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First record of Latrodectus hesperus Chamberlin & Ivie, 1935, Western Black Widow (Araneae, Theridiidae), in Slovakia

Abstract

An alien spider species, Latrodectus hesperus Chamberlin & Ivie, 1935, is reported from Slovakia for the first time. The spider was accidentally transported to northern Slovakia with goods, and it was found in synanthropic habitat. This record confirms the route through which spiders of the genus Latrodectus are imported into Europe. Characteristic features, along with photographs of the habitus and copulatory organs, are presented.

Purgat P, Švecová L (2025) First record of Latrodectus hesperus Chamberlin & Ivie, 1935, Western Black Widow (Araneae, Theridiidae), in Slovakia. Check List 21(1): 107-115. https://doi.org/10.15560/21.1.107