Beyond Venom and Constriction: Bite Performance and Trophic Ecology in the Genus Drymarchon

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  Beyond Venom and Constriction: Bite Performance and Trophic Ecology in the Genus Drymarchon Abstract Snakes exhibit extreme cranial kinesis that facilitates ingestion of prey with large cross-sectional area, but this ability is widely predicted to reduce bite performance due to decreased structural rigidity. Consequently, most large-bodied snakes rely on envenomation or constriction to subdue prey prior to ingestion. Species within the genus Drymarchon represent a notable exception: these large, non-venomous, non-constricting snakes routinely consume a wide range of prey, including large and potentially dangerous vertebrates, using only simple seizing and pinioning behaviors. Here, we quantify bite performance in three species of Drymarchon ( D. corais, D. couperi, and D. melanurus ), examine morphological predictors of biting performance, compare biting pressure to constriction pressure in similarly sized snakes, and synthesize dietary records across the genus. Our results sh...

In Memoriam: Arthur (Art) Decae and His Contributions to Arachnology

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Image Credit: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Arthur-Decae 

In Memoriam: Arthur (Art) Decae and His Contributions to Arachnology

The arachnological community has received the sad news of the passing of Arthur (Art) Decae of the Netherlands, a long-standing member of the International Society of Arachnology (ISA) and the European Society of Arachnology (ESA).

Arthur was a respected authority on mygalomorph spiders, particularly those of Europe and the Mediterranean region. His research contributed significantly to the taxonomy, diversity, distribution, and natural history of these often poorly known spiders.

In announcing his passing on behalf of the ISA, Jason Dunlop extended condolences to Arthur's family, friends, and colleagues. Marco Isaia, who remained in contact with Arthur during his final year, also shared a message that Arthur had specifically asked to be passed on to the arachnological community:

“I would appreciate it if you tell our spider friends and let them know how much happiness they have brought into my life.”

Those words are a fitting reflection of Arthur's long association with arachnology and the friendships he formed through a shared interest in spiders. Despite declining health, he remained engaged with his work until very recently. Earlier this year, he also experienced the loss of his wife, Nollie, whose absence affected him deeply.

Arthur's many years of research and his contributions to the study of European and Mediterranean mygalomorphs will remain part of the scientific record. Colleagues have also remembered his enthusiasm, generosity, friendship, and lifelong passion for spiders.

Arácnido Taxonomy extends its condolences to Arthur Decae's family, friends, colleagues, and all those in the arachnological community who knew him.