Distinct pathophysiological mechanisms of Heterometrus laoticus and Lychas mucronatus scorpion venoms on cardiovascular and renal functions

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  Distinct pathophysiological mechanisms of Heterometrus laoticus and Lychas mucronatus scorpion venoms on cardiovascular and renal functions Abstract Background:    Heterometrus laoticus and Lychas mucronatus are widely distributed in Southeast Asia, yet their pathophysiological effects of both venoms remain poorly characterized due to low human fatality rates. This study compared their venom compositions and acute cardiovascular and renal effects. Methods:   Anesthetized male New Zealand White rabbits were monitored for blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), and renal clearance following intravenous administration of crude venom (0.5 mg/kg). Venom components were identified via LC-MS/MS, and hematological/biochemical parameters were assessed. Results:    H. laoticus venom induced a rapid, transient hypotension ( p < 0.05), followed by a mild, prolonged hypotensive phase (up to 120 min). Conversely, L. mucronatus venom elicited a biphasic response: ...

Natural history of two spider species of the genus Phonotimpus (Araneae: Phrurolithidae) endemic to Chiapas, Mexico

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Natural history of two spider species of the genus Phonotimpus (Araneae: Phrurolithidae) endemic to Chiapas, Mexico

Abstract

Phonotimpus pennimani and P. talquian (Phrurolithidae) are common spider species inhabiting leaf litter in tropical environments of Chiapas, Mexico. This study summarizes laboratory and field observations on their natural history. Both species were observed preying on Tomoceridae springtails in the field and exhibited a preference for springtails in laboratory conditions. Both species continued feeding well beyond maturity, and juveniles were capable of subduing large springtails. Females continued feeding even while guarding their egg sacs. Both species constructed disk-like egg sacs and guarded them until offspring emergence, demonstrating maternal care. Juveniles and penultimate instars typically constructed retreats for molting. Additionally, we documented the parasitism on P. pennimani eggs by a Scelionidae wasp.

Chamé-Vázquez, David, Ibarra-Núñez, Guillermo, & Jiménez, María-Luisa. (2025). Natural history of two spider species of the genus Phonotimpus (Araneae: Phrurolithidae) endemic to Chiapas, Mexico. Acta zoológica mexicana, 41, e2714. Epub 20 de mayo de 2025.https://doi.org/10.21829/azm.2025.4112714