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...

The morphology of Buthus kunti Yağmur, Koç & Lourenço(Scorpiones: Buthidae) and first description of male with some ecological observations

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The morphology of Buthus kunti Yağmur, Koç & Lourenço(Scorpiones: Buthidae) and first description of male with some ecological observations

ABSTRACT

Buthus kunti Yağmur, Koç & Lourenço was described based on a female holotype specimen from Cyprus. This species is redescribed based on the holotype and additional specimens collected from Cyprus, with the male description and variational information presented for the first time. Detailed illustrations and UV light images of the female holotype and male specimen are provided. The first ecological observations of B. kunti are presented here. We observed that B. kunti prefers sandy soil and is a burrowing species. Additionally, we observed that B. kunti is associated with the bushes of Cistus salviifolius. According to our observations, specimens sit under the branches of these bushes or climb them. Adults were observed under the bushes, whereas subadult specimens were observed on the branches. We also report the first recorded case of cannibalism in this species, documenting two instances.

Yağmur, E. A., Kunt, K. B., Hadjiconstantis, M., Bağlar, H., & Gücel, S. (2025). The morphology of Buthus kunti Yağmur, Koç & Lourenço(Scorpiones: Buthidae) and first description of male with some ecological observations. Journal of Natural History, 59(25–28), 1775–1805. https://doi.org/10.1080/00222933.2025.2498715