Brief history of ophidiology and ophidism in Colombia

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  Brief history of ophidiology and ophidism in Colombia  Abstract This review traces the historical trajectory of ophidiology (the study of snakes) and ophidism (snakebite envenoming) within the Colombian context. Despite the profound cultural and scientific significance of the human–serpent relationship in the region, the relevant literature remains fragmented, with foundational historical works neither digitized nor readily accessible. To address this, we conducted a narrative review of primary sources spanning from the pre-Colombian era to the present. Our methodology involved sourcing material from specialized libraries, historical archives, personal collections and contemporary scientific databases. The analysis identifies and contextualizes pivotal contributions across distinct historical periods, from early archeological evidence and colonial accounts to foundational eighteenth-century works and the formalized scientific studies of the last two centuries. The review cul...

Enrichment of Rearing Conditions of the Spider Pardosa astrigera (Araneae: Lycosidae)

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Enrichment of Rearing Conditions of the Spider Pardosa astrigera (Araneae: Lycosidae)

ABSTRACT

Pardosa astrigera is a species of spider that plays an important role in controlling crops pests but is at risk due to human agricultural practices. To optimize laboratory rearing, we developed specialized diets and rearing containers for both mother spiders and spiderlings. The maximum survival to adulthood was achieved with a diet of Drosophila melanogaster, Acyrthosiphon pisum and Aphis gossypii. Spiderlings fed an artificial milk diet, consisting of milk, egg yolk, and honey, had a 33% survival rate until the 5th life stage. Increasing the rearing space using 250 mL plastic cups improved survival (66%) compared to 50 mL jars (38%). The findings of this study offer pivotal technical support for delving deeper into the biological traits, dietary necessities, and reproductive processes of spiders. Furthermore, these insights can serve as a valuable reference for the artificial cultivation of other beneficial insects, thereby facilitating the enhancement of biological control strategies.

Qiao, X., Nasir, M., Zhao, Y., Wang, L., Zhang, K., Li, D., Ji, J., Gao, X., Cui, J., Zhu, X., & Luo, J. (2025). Enrichment of Rearing Conditions of the Spider Pardosa astrigera (Araneae: Lycosidae). Archives of Insect Biochemistry and Physiology, 118(4), e70056. https://doi.org/10.1002/arch.70056