Phylogeography of cliff racer (Platyceps rhodorachis Jan, 1865) from Punjab, Pakistan / Filografia de penhasco (Platyceps rhodorachis Jan, 1865) de Punjab, Paquistão

The present study reports the existence of cliff racer, Platyceps rhodorachis from the plains of Punjab, Pakistan. A total of 10 specimens were captured during the field surveys from June to September, 2018 from different sites of Punjab. Platyceps rhodorachis was identify on the basis of morphology and confirmed through COI gene sequences. The obtained DNA sequences have shown reliable and exact species identification. Newly produced DNA sequences of Platyceps rhodorachis were submitted to GenBank and accession numbers were obtained (MK936174.1, MK941839.1 and MT790210.1). N-J tree based on COI sequences of Platyceps rhodorachis clearly separated as out-group with other members of family Colubridae based on p-distance. The intra-specific genetic variation ranges from 12% to 18%. The DNA sequences of Platyceps rhodorachis kashmirensis, Platyceps rhodorachis ladacensis, Platyceps ventromaculatus, Platyceps ventromaculatus bengalensis and Platyceps ventromaculatus indusai are not available at NCBI to validate their taxonomic positions. In our recommendations, a large scale molecular based identification of Pakistan’s herpetofauna is required to report more new or subspecies from country.

O presente estudo relata a existência de um corredor de penhasco, Platyceps rhodorachis, das planícies de Punjab, Paquistão. Um total de 10 espécimes foi capturado durante os levantamentos de campo de junho a setembro de 2018 em diferentes locais de Punjab. Platyceps rhodorachis foi identificada com base na morfologia e confirmada por meio de sequências do gene COI. As sequências de DNA obtidas mostraram identificação de espécies confiável e exata. Sequências de DNA de Platyceps rhodorachis recém-produzidas foram submetidas ao GenBank e os números de acesso foram obtidos (MK936174.1, MK941839.1 e MT790210.1). Árvore N-J baseada em sequências COI de Platyceps rhodorachis claramente separadas como out-group com outros membros da família Colubridae com base na distância-p. A variação genética intraespecífica varia de 12% a 18%. As sequências de DNA de Platyceps rhodorachis kashmirensis, Platyceps rhodorachis ladacensis, Platyceps ventromaculatus, Platyceps ventromaculatus bengalensis e Platyceps ventromaculatus indusai não estão disponíveis no NCBI para validar suas posições taxonômicas. Em nossas recomendações, uma identificação de base molecular em grande escala da herpetofauna do Paquistão é necessária para relatar mais novas ou subespécies do país.

Phylogeography of cliff racer (Platyceps rhodorachis Jan, 1865) from Punjab, Pakistan / Filografia de penhasco (Platyceps rhodorachis Jan, 1865) de Punjab, Paquistão

The present study reports the existence of cliff racer, Platyceps rhodorachis from the plains of Punjab, Pakistan. A total of 10 specimens were captured during the field surveys from June to September, 2018 from different sites of Punjab. Platyceps rhodorachis was identify on the basis of morphology and confirmed through COI gene sequences. The obtained DNA sequences have shown reliable and exact species identification. Newly produced DNA sequences of Platyceps rhodorachis were submitted to GenBank and accession numbers were obtained (MK936174.1, MK941839.1 and MT790210.1). N-J tree based on COI sequences of Platyceps rhodorachis clearly separated as out-group with other members of family Colubridae based on p-distance. The intra-specific genetic variation ranges from 12% to 18%. The DNA sequences of Platyceps rhodorachis kashmirensis, Platyceps rhodorachis ladacensis, Platyceps ventromaculatus, Platyceps ventromaculatus bengalensis and Platyceps ventromaculatus indusai are not available at NCBI to validate their taxonomic positions. In our recommendations, a large scale molecular based identification of Pakistans herpetofauna is required to report more new or subspecies from country.(AU)

O presente estudo relata a existência de um corredor de penhasco, Platyceps rhodorachis, das planícies de Punjab, Paquistão. Um total de 10 espécimes foi capturado durante os levantamentos de campo de junho a setembro de 2018 em diferentes locais de Punjab. Platyceps rhodorachis foi identificada com base na morfologia e confirmada por meio de sequências do gene COI. As sequências de DNA obtidas mostraram identificação de espécies confiável e exata. Sequências de DNA de Platyceps rhodorachis recém-produzidas foram submetidas ao GenBank e os números de acesso foram obtidos (MK936174.1, MK941839.1 e MT790210.1). Árvore N-J baseada em sequências COI de Platyceps rhodorachis claramente separadas como out-group com outros membros da família Colubridae com base na distância-p. A variação genética intraespecífica varia de 12% a 18%. As sequências de DNA de Platyceps rhodorachis kashmirensis, Platyceps rhodorachis ladacensis, Platyceps ventromaculatus, Platyceps ventromaculatus bengalensis e Platyceps ventromaculatus indusai não estão disponíveis no NCBI para validar suas posições taxonômicas. Em nossas recomendações, uma identificação de base molecular em grande escala da herpetofauna do Paquistão é necessária para relatar mais novas ou subespécies do país.(AU)

First record of leucism in the polychromatic Amazon tree boa, Corallus hortulana (Serpentes, Boidae) of South America / Primeiro registro de leucismo em suaçuboia, Corallus hortulana (Serpentes, Boidae) uma espécie policromática da América do Sul

Snakes have a wide variety of color patterns that can be related to specific ecological and physiological functions. However, genetic mutations can lead to the appearance of anomalous color patterns, which can directly interfere with the fitness of individuals. Leucism is a chromatic anomaly characterized by the almost total absence of epidermal and dermal chromatophores that produce the color. Corallus hortulana is an arboreal snake with nocturnal habits, widely distributed throughout South America, with a wide range of color patterns, known as polychromatism. Here we report the first case of leucism in Corallus hortulana and discuss the potential ecological implications of this anomaly in this species.(AU)

As cobras possuem uma grande variedade de padrões de coloração que podem estar relacionadas a funções ecológicas e fisiológicas específicas. No entanto, mutações genéticas podem levar ao aparecimento de padrões de coloração anômalos que podem interferir diretamente na fitness do indivíduo. O leucismo é uma anomalia cromática caracterizada pela ausência quase total de cromatóforos epidérmicos e dérmicos que produzem a cor. Corallus hortulana é uma serpente arborícola de hábitos noturnos, amplamente distribuída pela América do Sul, com grande variação de padrões de cor, conhecida como policromatismo. Aqui nós relatamos o primeiro caso de leucismo em Corallus hortulana e discutimos as potenciais implicações ecológicas desta anomalia para a espécie.(AU)

A three-year Herpetofauna survey from one of the largest remnants of the Atlantic Rainforest Biome (Reserva Natural Vale)

Here we present a three-year survey of amphibian and reptile species registered in the Vale Natural Reserve (VNR), located in the north of Espírito Santo, southeastern Brazil. The VNR, along with the Sooretama Biological Reserve (SBR) and other surrounding areas, form a forest block that constitutes one of the largest remnants of continuous forest in the Atlantic Forest biome. We systematically sampled the herpetofauna community from 2015 to 2018, using the method of active search method in 27 plots of RAPELD distributed in the different types of vegetation present in the area. We recorded 39 species of amphibians belonging to the order Anura, distributed in seven families and 40 species of reptiles belonging to 20 families distributed in three orders: Crocodylia, Testudines and Squamata. The supplementation the samplings with those records from occasional encounters was important for the survey of the region's herpetofauna, mainly for reptiles. We added four species (two lizards, one amphisbaenid and one snake) to the known list for the VNR-SBR forest block: Micrablepharus maximiliani, Strobilurus torquatus, Amphisbaena alba and Tantilla sp. We demonstrated that VNR contains a high species richness of amphibians and reptiles, with a high number of anurans being endemic to the Atlantic Forest biome. The present species inventory provided the most current approximation of known the richness and composition of species of the existing herpetofauna at Vale Natural Reserve, since the period of the gathering of records is quite recent (2015-2018). Also, it brings the knowledge of some community parameters as species richness and composition not only for the whole area of the Vale Natural Reserve, but also for its different vegetation types, with no inclusion of environments outside this reserve. Furthermore, the presence of threatened species, the addition of four species to the current list, and the potential for new species to occur, reinforce the role of VNR as an important area for the protection of amphibian and reptile biodiversity in the Atlantic Forest.(AU)

Taxonomic key to the snakes (Squamata: Ophidia) species of the Itajaí Valley, Santa Catarina, Brazil

Snakes represent the richest Reptile group in Brazil, amounting to 412 species and 40% of them are endemic for the country. This great richness combined with the poor taxonomic knowledge makes the identification a difficult process. To correctly identify a specimen, guides, taxonomic revisions, identification keys, and consulting specialists are the most used methods. Identification keys are based on separation and segregation of characters, where the chosen paths lead to the appropriate taxa. These tools are normally used by students and non-taxonomists. Also, they can be very helpful with the general public, where they can identify the species with simple characters. This study aims to develop keys for the snakes from the State of Santa Catarina state, Brazil, focusing on the Itajaí Valley species. We surveyed 351 specimens deposited in Universidade Regional de Blumenau Zoological Collection (CZFURB), Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (CHUFSC), and Natural History Museum of Capão da Imbuia (MHNCI) herpetological collections. Characters including pholidosis, dentition, and coloration patterns were examined from the 46 snake species registered from Itajaí Valley.(AU)

Taxonomic key to the snakes (Squamata: Ophidia) species of the Itajaí Valley, Santa Catarina, Brazil

Abstract Snakes represent the richest Reptile group in Brazil, amounting to 412 species and 40% of them are endemic for the country. This great richness combined with the poor taxonomic knowledge makes the identification a difficult process. To correctly identify a specimen, guides, taxonomic revisions, identification keys, and consulting specialists are the most used methods. Identification keys are based on separation and segregation of characters, where the chosen paths lead to the appropriate taxa. These tools are normally used by students and non-taxonomists. Also, they can be very helpful with the general public, where they can identify the species with simple characters. This study aims to develop keys for the snakes from the State of Santa Catarina state, Brazil, focusing on the Itajaí Valley species. We surveyed 351 specimens deposited in Universidade Regional de Blumenau Zoological Collection (CZFURB), Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (CHUFSC), and Natural History Museum of Capão da Imbuia (MHNCI) herpetological collections. Characters including pholidosis, dentition, and coloration patterns were examined from the 46 snake species registered from Itajaí Valley.

Taxonomic key to the snakes (Squamata: Ophidia) species of the Itajaí Valley, Santa Catarina, Brazil

Abstract Snakes represent the richest Reptile group in Brazil, amounting to 412 species and 40% of them are endemic for the country. This great richness combined with the poor taxonomic knowledge makes the identification a difficult process. To correctly identify a specimen, guides, taxonomic revisions, identification keys, and consulting specialists are the most used methods. Identification keys are based on separation and segregation of characters, where the chosen paths lead to the appropriate taxa. These tools are normally used by students and non-taxonomists. Also, they can be very helpful with the general public, where they can identify the species with simple characters. This study aims to develop keys for the snakes from the State of Santa Catarina state, Brazil, focusing on the Itajaí Valley species. We surveyed 351 specimens deposited in Universidade Regional de Blumenau Zoological Collection (CZFURB), Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (CHUFSC), and Natural History Museum of Capão da Imbuia (MHNCI) herpetological collections. Characters including pholidosis, dentition, and coloration patterns were examined from the 46 snake species registered from Itajaí Valley.

Hemostatic evaluation of rabbits envenomed with Bothrops alternatus treated with anti-bothropic serum, desmopressin and tranexamin acid / Avaliação hemostática de coelhos envenenados com Bothrops alternatus e tratados com soro antibotrópico, desmopressina e ácido tranexâmico

In Brazil, snakes from the Bothrops genus are responsible for thousands of accidents, and their venoms are mainly composed of proteolytic enzymes. Although the antibothropic serum produced by the Brazilian Institutes is remarkably efficient, more studies are necessary, especially in veterinary medicine. The venom contain enzymes and non-enzymatic proteins that interfere with hemostasis leading to hemorrhage or even thrombosis. Possible treatment associations with known bothropic antivenom were the reason for the development of the present study. The aim of this study was to evaluate hemostasis alterations caused by Bothrops alternatus venom in rabbits followed by treatments with anti-bothropic serum, tranexamic acid and desmopressin. Twenty New Zealand rabbits were distributed into five groups (n=4) that were experimentally envenomed with 150mcg/kg of B. alternatus venom via intramuscular injection and treated as follow: Group 1 (G1) was the positive control and received venom and PBS/BSA; Group 2 (G2) was treated with tranexamic acid; Group 3 (G3) with desmopressin; Group 4 (G4) with tranexamic acid and anti-bothropic serum; and Group 5 (G5) with anti-bothropic serum and desmopressin. Blood samples were collected before venom administration, and one, four, eight and 12 hours after, for Partial activated partial thromboplastin time, Prothrombin Time, Thrombin Time and fibrinogen evaluation. Thrombin generation (TG) test was carried out with a pool of samples from final times (8 and 12h). At the end of 12h, all animals were euthanized and necropsy was conducted. Samples from muscle tissue, heart, lungs and kidney were analyzed. Classic coagulation tests showed no significant differences amongst groups and times. However, TG indicated that the venom causes a hypocoagulability state, which was not reversed by proposed treatments. Histology showed muscle inflammation, hemorrhage and necrosis, as well as hemorrhage in other tissues with no differences amongst groups. B. alternatus envenomation causes hypocoagulability detected by TG assay, but not through classical coagulation tests. The use of tranexamic acid and desmopressin for hemostasis stabilization after inoculation of the venom did not show advantage in coagulation restoration.(AU)

No Brasil, as serpentes do gênero Bothrops são responsáveis por milhares de acidentes, e seus venenos são compostos principalmente de enzimas proteolíticas. Embora o soro antiofídico produzido pelos institutos brasileiros seja notavelmente eficiente, mais estudos são necessários, especialmente na medicina veterinária. O veneno contem enzimas e proteínas não-enzimáticas que interferem com a hemostasia levando a hemorragias ou trombose. A associação de outros tratamentos ao soro antibotrópico foi a razão para o desenvolvimento do presente estudo. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as alterações da hemostasia causadas pelo veneno de Bothrops alternatus em coelhos, após tratamento com soro antibotrópico, ácido tranexâmico e desmopressina. Vinte coelhos da Nova Zelândia foram distribuídos em cinco grupos (n = 4) que foram submetidos a experimentos com 150mcg/kg de veneno de B. alternatus por injeção intramuscular. O Grupo 1 (G1) foi o controle positivo e recebeu veneno e PBS / BSA, enquanto o Grupo 2 (G2) foi tratado com ácido tranexâmico, o Grupo 3 (G3) com desmopressina, o Grupo 4 (G4) com ácido tranexâmico e soro antibotrópico, e o Grupo 5 (G5) com soro antibotrópico e desmopressina. As amostras de sangue foram coletadas antes da administração do veneno, e uma, quatro, oito e 12 horas após os tratamentos para realização de tempo de tromboplastina parcial ativada parcial (TTPa), tempo de protrombina (TP), tempo de trombina (TT) e mensuração de fibrinogênio. Para o ensaio de geração de trombina (TG) foi realizado com um pool de amostras nos tempos finais (8 e 12h). Ao final das 12h, todos os animais foram sacrificados e a necropsia foi realizada. Amostras de tecido muscular, coração, pulmões e rins foram analisadas. Os testes TTPa, TP, TT e fibrinogênio não mostraram diferenças significativas entre os grupos e os tempos. No entanto, o TG indicou que o veneno causa um estado de hipocoagulabilidade, que não foi revertido pelos tratamentos propostos. Na histologia, foram observadas inflamação muscular, hemorragia e necrose, além de hemorragia em outros tecidos, sem diferenças entre os grupos. O envenenamento por B. alternatus causa hipocoagulabilidade detectada mais precocemente pelo teste de geração de trombina. O uso de ácido tranexâmico e desmopressina para estabilização da hemostasia após a inoculação do veneno não mostrou vantagem na restauração da coagulação.(AU)

King Cobra and snakebite envenomation: on the natural history, human-snake relationship and medical importance of Ophiophagus hannah

King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) has a significant place in many cultures, and is a medically important venomous snake in the world. Envenomation by this snake is highly lethal, manifested mainly by neurotoxicity and local tissue damage. King Cobra may be part of a larger species complex, and is widely distributed across Southeast Asia, southern China, northern and eastern regions as well as the Western Ghats of India, indicating potential geographical variation in venom composition. There is, however, only one species-specific King Cobra antivenom available worldwide that is produced in Thailand, using venom from the snake of Thai origin. Issues relating to the management of King Cobra envenomation (e.g., variation in the composition and toxicity of the venom, limited availability and efficacy of antivenom), and challenges faced in the research of venom (in particular proteomics), are rarely addressed. This article reviews the natural history and sociocultural importance of King Cobra, cases of snakebite envenomation caused by this species, current practice of management (preclinical and clinical), and major toxinological studies of the venom with a focus on venom proteomics, toxicity and neutralization. Unfortunately, epidemiological data of King Cobra bite is scarce, and venom proteomes reported in various studies revealed marked discrepancies in details. Challenges, such as inconsistency in snake venom sampling, varying methodology of proteomic analysis, lack of mechanistic and antivenomic studies, and controversy surrounding antivenom use in treating King Cobra envenomation are herein discussed. Future directions are proposed, including the effort to establish a standard, comprehensive Pan-Asian proteomic database of King Cobra venom, from which the venom variation can be determined. Research should be undertaken to characterize the toxin antigenicity, and to develop an antivenom with improved efficacy and wider geographical utility. The endeavors are aligned with the WHO´s roadmap that aims to reduce the disease burden of snakebite by 50% before 2030.(AU)

Hemostatic evaluation of rabbits envenomed with Bothrops alternatus treated with anti-bothropic serum, desmopressin and tranexamin acid / Avaliação hemostática de coelhos envenenados com Bothrops alternatus e tratados com soro antibotrópico, desmopressina e ácido tranexâmico

In Brazil, snakes from the Bothrops genus are responsible for thousands of accidents, and their venoms are mainly composed of proteolytic enzymes. Although the antibothropic serum produced by the Brazilian Institutes is remarkably efficient, more studies are necessary, especially in veterinary medicine. The venom contain enzymes and non-enzymatic proteins that interfere with hemostasis leading to hemorrhage or even thrombosis. Possible treatment associations with known bothropic antivenom were the reason for the development of the present study. The aim of this study was to evaluate hemostasis alterations caused by Bothrops alternatus venom in rabbits followed by treatments with anti-bothropic serum, tranexamic acid and desmopressin. Twenty New Zealand rabbits were distributed into five groups (n=4) that were experimentally envenomed with 150mcg/kg of B. alternatus venom via intramuscular injection and treated as follow: Group 1 (G1) was the positive control and received venom and PBS/BSA; Group 2 (G2) was treated with tranexamic acid; Group 3 (G3) with desmopressin; Group 4 (G4) with tranexamic acid and anti-bothropic serum; and Group 5 (G5) with anti-bothropic serum and desmopressin. Blood samples were collected before venom administration, and one, four, eight and 12 hours after, for Partial activated partial thromboplastin time, Prothrombin Time, Thrombin Time and fibrinogen evaluation. Thrombin generation (TG) test was carried out with a pool of samples from final times (8 and 12h). At the end of 12h, all animals were euthanized and necropsy was conducted. Samples from muscle tissue, heart, lungs and kidney were analyzed. Classic coagulation tests showed no significant differences amongst groups and times. However, TG indicated that the venom causes a hypocoagulability state, which was not reversed by proposed treatments. Histology showed muscle inflammation, hemorrhage and necrosis, as well as hemorrhage in other tissues with no differences amongst groups. B. alternatus envenomation causes hypocoagulability detected by TG assay, but not through classical coagulation tests. The use of tranexamic acid and desmopressin for hemostasis stabilization after inoculation of the venom did not show advantage in coagulation restoration.(AU)

No Brasil, as serpentes do gênero Bothrops são responsáveis por milhares de acidentes, e seus venenos são compostos principalmente de enzimas proteolíticas. Embora o soro antiofídico produzido pelos institutos brasileiros seja notavelmente eficiente, mais estudos são necessários, especialmente na medicina veterinária. O veneno contem enzimas e proteínas não-enzimáticas que interferem com a hemostasia levando a hemorragias ou trombose. A associação de outros tratamentos ao soro antibotrópico foi a razão para o desenvolvimento do presente estudo. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as alterações da hemostasia causadas pelo veneno de Bothrops alternatus em coelhos, após tratamento com soro antibotrópico, ácido tranexâmico e desmopressina. Vinte coelhos da Nova Zelândia foram distribuídos em cinco grupos (n = 4) que foram submetidos a experimentos com 150mcg/kg de veneno de B. alternatus por injeção intramuscular. O Grupo 1 (G1) foi o controle positivo e recebeu veneno e PBS / BSA, enquanto o Grupo 2 (G2) foi tratado com ácido tranexâmico, o Grupo 3 (G3) com desmopressina, o Grupo 4 (G4) com ácido tranexâmico e soro antibotrópico, e o Grupo 5 (G5) com soro antibotrópico e desmopressina. As amostras de sangue foram coletadas antes da administração do veneno, e uma, quatro, oito e 12 horas após os tratamentos para realização de tempo de tromboplastina parcial ativada parcial (TTPa), tempo de protrombina (TP), tempo de trombina (TT) e mensuração de fibrinogênio. Para o ensaio de geração de trombina (TG) foi realizado com um pool de amostras nos tempos finais (8 e 12h). Ao final das 12h, todos os animais foram sacrificados e a necropsia foi realizada. Amostras de tecido muscular, coração, pulmões e rins foram analisadas. Os testes TTPa, TP, TT e fibrinogênio não mostraram diferenças significativas entre os grupos e os tempos. No entanto, o TG indicou que o veneno causa um estado de hipocoagulabilidade, que não foi revertido pelos tratamentos propostos. Na histologia, foram observadas inflamação muscular, hemorragia e necrose, além de hemorragia em outros tecidos, sem diferenças entre os grupos. O envenenamento por B. alternatus causa hipocoagulabilidade detectada mais precocemente pelo teste de geração de trombina. O uso de ácido tranexâmico e desmopressina para estabilização da hemostasia após a inoculação do veneno não mostrou vantagem na restauração da coagulação.(AU)

Ultrasonographic characterization of the organs in the middle third and caudal coelomic cavity of snakes in the Boidae Family / Caracterização ultrassonográfica dos órgãos do terço médio e caudal da cavidade celomática de serpentes da família Boidae

The aim of this study was the ultrasonographic evaluation of the organs in the middle third and caudal coelomic cavity of healthy snakes in the Boidae family. For such, 15 adult snakes from five species were evaluated: Boa constrictor amarali, Boa constrictor constrictor, Eunectes murinus, Epicrates assisi and Epicrates crassus. The animals were physically restrained for examination. After the application of acoustic gel over the scales the transducer was positioned in the frontal plane of the coelomic cavity. Microconvex and linear transducers at 10MHz were used. The ultrasound examination was conducted in the craniocaudal direction, with longitudinal and transversal sections to assess syntropy, echogenicity and echotexture of the organs. The liver was bilobulated, hyperechoic, homogeneous echotexture, hyperechoic capsule, with a hepatic lobe measuring 1.15±0.64cm wide, and the presence of a central hepatic vein, measuring 0.44±0.21cm in diameter. The gallbladder was characterized as an anechoic structure with echogenic walls and dimensions of 2.91±1.18cm x 1.38±0.84cm (length x width). The stomach showed a pleated and linear texture, echogenic, with hypoechoic walls measuring 0.3±0.07cm wide. The splenopancreas was a circular and echogenic structure, homogeneous echotexture and measuring 1.18±0.62cm in width and 1.56±0.88cm in length. The kidneys were characterized by elongated, lobulated, hypoechoic structures, an echogenic capsule and an echogenic central line, measuring 1.05±0.7cm in width. The testis were characterized by fusiform, hypoechoic structures, homogeneous echotexture, measuring 2.31±0.79cm in length and 0.6±0.23cm in width. Ovarian follicles were seen in different stages, 0.67±0.39cm wide and 0.73±0.38cm long. No differences were found between species of syntropy, echogenicity and echotexture of the organs of the coelomic cavity. The ultrasound examination proved to be a safe, non-invasive and efficient technique for characterizing the organs of the coelomic cavity of snakes.(AU)

O objetivo do estudo foi realizar a avaliação ultrassonográfica de órgãos do terço médio e caudal da cavidade celomática de serpentes hígidas da família Boidae. Para isto, foram avaliadas 15 serpentes adultas de cinco espécies: Boa constrictor amarali, Boa constrictor constrictor, Eunectes murinus, Epicrates assisi e Epicrates crassus. Os animais foram contidos fisicamente para a realização do exame. Após aplicação de gel acústico sobre as escamas, o transdutor foi posicionado no plano frontal da cavidade celomática. Foram utilizados transdutores microconvexo e linear em 10MHz. O exame ultrassonográfico foi conduzido no sentido craniocaudal, com cortes longitudinais e transversais para avaliar sintopia, ecogenicidade e ecotextura dos órgãos. O fígado se apresentou bilobulado, hiperecoico, ecotextura homogênea, cápsula hiperecoica, com lobo hepático medindo 1,15±0,64cm de largura, e presença de uma veia central hepática, medindo 0,44±0,21cm de diâmetro. A vesícula biliar foi caracterizada como uma estrutura anecoica de paredes ecogênicas e dimensões de 2,91±1,18cm x 1,38±0,84cm(comprimento x largura). O estômago apresentou-se com o aspecto pregueado e linear, ecogênico, com paredes hipoecoicas medindo 0,3±0,07cm de largura. O esplenopâncreasse apresentou como uma estrutura circular e ecogênica, ecotextura homogênea e medindo de 1,18±0,62cm de largura e 1,56±0,88cm de comprimento. Os rins se caracterizaram por estruturas alongadas, lobuladas, hipoecoicas, cápsula ecogênica e uma linha central ecogênica, medindo 1,05±0,7cm de largura. Os testículos foram caracterizados por estruturas fusiformes, hipoecoicas, ecotextura homogênea, medindo 2,31±0,79cm de comprimento e 0,6±0,23cm de largura. Foram visualizados folículos ovarianos em diferentes estágios, de 0,67±0,39cm de largura e 0,73±0,38cm de comprimento. Não foram encontradas diferenças entre espécies de sintopia, ecogenicidade e ecotextura dos órgãos da cavidade celomática. O exame ultrassonográfico demonstrou-se uma técnica segura, não invasiva e eficiente para caracterização dos órgãos da cavidade celomática de serpentes.(AU)

Ultrasonographic characterization of the organs in the middle third and caudal coelomic cavity of snakes in the Boidae Family / Caracterização ultrassonográfica dos órgãos do terço médio e caudal da cavidade celomática de serpentes da família Boidae

The aim of this study was the ultrasonographic evaluation of the organs in the middle third and caudal coelomic cavity of healthy snakes in the Boidae family. For such, 15 adult snakes from five species were evaluated: Boa constrictor amarali, Boa constrictor constrictor, Eunectes murinus, Epicrates assisi and Epicrates crassus. The animals were physically restrained for examination. After the application of acoustic gel over the scales the transducer was positioned in the frontal plane of the coelomic cavity. Microconvex and linear transducers at 10MHz were used. The ultrasound examination was conducted in the craniocaudal direction, with longitudinal and transversal sections to assess syntropy, echogenicity and echotexture of the organs. The liver was bilobulated, hyperechoic, homogeneous echotexture, hyperechoic capsule, with a hepatic lobe measuring 1.15±0.64cm wide, and the presence of a central hepatic vein, measuring 0.44±0.21cm in diameter. The gallbladder was characterized as an anechoic structure with echogenic walls and dimensions of 2.91±1.18cm x 1.38±0.84cm (length x width). The stomach showed a pleated and linear texture, echogenic, with hypoechoic walls measuring 0.3±0.07cm wide. The splenopancreas was a circular and echogenic structure, homogeneous echotexture and measuring 1.18±0.62cm in width and 1.56±0.88cm in length. The kidneys were characterized by elongated, lobulated, hypoechoic structures, an echogenic capsule and an echogenic central line, measuring 1.05±0.7cm in width. The testis were characterized by fusiform, hypoechoic structures, homogeneous echotexture, measuring 2.31±0.79cm in length and 0.6±0.23cm in width. Ovarian follicles were seen in different stages, 0.67±0.39cm wide and 0.73±0.38cm long. No differences were found between species of syntropy, echogenicity and echotexture of the organs of the coelomic cavity. The ultrasound examination proved to be a safe, non-invasive and efficient technique for characterizing the organs of the coelomic cavity of snakes.(AU)

O objetivo do estudo foi realizar a avaliação ultrassonográfica de órgãos do terço médio e caudal da cavidade celomática de serpentes hígidas da família Boidae. Para isto, foram avaliadas 15 serpentes adultas de cinco espécies: Boa constrictor amarali, Boa constrictor constrictor, Eunectes murinus, Epicrates assisi e Epicrates crassus. Os animais foram contidos fisicamente para a realização do exame. Após aplicação de gel acústico sobre as escamas, o transdutor foi posicionado no plano frontal da cavidade celomática. Foram utilizados transdutores microconvexo e linear em 10MHz. O exame ultrassonográfico foi conduzido no sentido craniocaudal, com cortes longitudinais e transversais para avaliar sintopia, ecogenicidade e ecotextura dos órgãos. O fígado se apresentou bilobulado, hiperecoico, ecotextura homogênea, cápsula hiperecoica, com lobo hepático medindo 1,15±0,64cm de largura, e presença de uma veia central hepática, medindo 0,44±0,21cm de diâmetro. A vesícula biliar foi caracterizada como uma estrutura anecoica de paredes ecogênicas e dimensões de 2,91±1,18cm x 1,38±0,84cm(comprimento x largura). O estômago apresentou-se com o aspecto pregueado e linear, ecogênico, com paredes hipoecoicas medindo 0,3±0,07cm de largura. O esplenopâncreasse apresentou como uma estrutura circular e ecogênica, ecotextura homogênea e medindo de 1,18±0,62cm de largura e 1,56±0,88cm de comprimento. Os rins se caracterizaram por estruturas alongadas, lobuladas, hipoecoicas, cápsula ecogênica e uma linha central ecogênica, medindo 1,05±0,7cm de largura. Os testículos foram caracterizados por estruturas fusiformes, hipoecoicas, ecotextura homogênea, medindo 2,31±0,79cm de comprimento e 0,6±0,23cm de largura. Foram visualizados folículos ovarianos em diferentes estágios, de 0,67±0,39cm de largura e 0,73±0,38cm de comprimento. Não foram encontradas diferenças entre espécies de sintopia, ecogenicidade e ecotextura dos órgãos da cavidade celomática. O exame ultrassonográfico demonstrou-se uma técnica segura, não invasiva e eficiente para caracterização dos órgãos da cavidade celomática de serpentes.(AU)

Caseous stomatitis caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Boa constrictor amarali

Background: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a bacterium that belongs to the microbiota of snakes, but it may also be anopportunistic pathogen and contaminate humans through fecal contact, bites, and injuries. In snakes, this microorganismmay present high pathogenicity at certain conditions and have been associated with high morbidity and mortality. Reportsof infection of Boa constrictor by this pathogen are rare. Thus, this study aimed to describe the P. aeruginosa oral infection in a snake specimen (Boa constrictor amarali), approaching the isolation and identification of the infectious agentsinvolved, the antimicrobial sensitivity and resistance, and the therapeutic protocol adopted.Case: A free-living adult female specimen of Boa constrictor amarali (Amaral’s boa), with no described previous history was rescued in an urban area by the Environmental Police. Clinical evaluations showed structures of caseous aspectin the oral cavity, with hyperemia spots in the mucosa. Samples of these lesions were sent for mycological examination,and fungal forms were not found. Samples were collected for isolation and culture. The antimicrobial susceptibility of theisolated microorganisms was determined by the modified Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. P. aeruginosa was isolatedand showed susceptibility to amikacin, gentamicin, and polymyxin-B; intermediate susceptibility to azithromycin, and ciprofloxacin; and resistance to cephalexin, ceftiofur, chloramphenicol, and enrofloxacin. The treatment consisted of cleaningof the oral cavity, local infiltration of lidocaine for debridement of the caseous area that were later cauterized with iodine.Systemic antibiotic therapy was used, with intramuscular administration of amikacin (5 mg/kg) for the first dose and (2.5mg/kg) for the other doses with intervals of 72 h, and oral administration of metronidazole...

Caseous stomatitis caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Boa constrictor amarali

Background: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a bacterium that belongs to the microbiota of snakes, but it may also be anopportunistic pathogen and contaminate humans through fecal contact, bites, and injuries. In snakes, this microorganismmay present high pathogenicity at certain conditions and have been associated with high morbidity and mortality. Reportsof infection of Boa constrictor by this pathogen are rare. Thus, this study aimed to describe the P. aeruginosa oral infection in a snake specimen (Boa constrictor amarali), approaching the isolation and identification of the infectious agentsinvolved, the antimicrobial sensitivity and resistance, and the therapeutic protocol adopted.Case: A free-living adult female specimen of Boa constrictor amarali (Amarals boa), with no described previous history was rescued in an urban area by the Environmental Police. Clinical evaluations showed structures of caseous aspectin the oral cavity, with hyperemia spots in the mucosa. Samples of these lesions were sent for mycological examination,and fungal forms were not found. Samples were collected for isolation and culture. The antimicrobial susceptibility of theisolated microorganisms was determined by the modified Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. P. aeruginosa was isolatedand showed susceptibility to amikacin, gentamicin, and polymyxin-B; intermediate susceptibility to azithromycin, and ciprofloxacin; and resistance to cephalexin, ceftiofur, chloramphenicol, and enrofloxacin. The treatment consisted of cleaningof the oral cavity, local infiltration of lidocaine for debridement of the caseous area that were later cauterized with iodine.Systemic antibiotic therapy was used, with intramuscular administration of amikacin (5 mg/kg) for the first dose and (2.5mg/kg) for the other doses with intervals of 72 h, and oral administration of metronidazole...(AU)

Distribution update, conservation status and color in life of the rare Amazonian snake, Eutrachelophis papilio Zaher and Prudente 2019 (Serpentes: Xenodontini)

The rare Amazonian snake Eutrachelophis papilio is known from only five individuals, from four localities, belonging to its type-series, the more recent collected over 10 years ago. Here, we expand its distribution and describe its color in life for the first time. We also provide an estimate of its distribution area using the minimum convex polygon method and identify the values of anthropic pressure within its known distribution range with the Human Footprint Index. The new occurrence is located 291 km from the nearest known locality and its distribution is associated with pristine forests. Considering its rarity, and the absence of demographic and biological data, we suggest that the species should be classified as Data Deficient by IUCN criteria.(AU)

A rara serpente amazônica Eutrachelophis papilio é conhecida por apenas cinco indivíduos provenientes de quatro localidades e pertencentes à sua série-tipo, sendo o mais recente coletado há mais de 10 anos. No presente trabalho, expandimos sua distribuição e descrevemos sua cor em vida pela primeira vez. Calculamos sua área de distribuição usando o método de mínimo polígono convexo e identificamos os valores de pressão antrópica dentro de sua área de distribuição através do Human Footprint Index. A nova ocorrência está a 291 km da localidade conhecida mais próxima e toda sua distribuição é associada a florestas bem preservadas. Devido à sua raridade, carências de dados demográficos e biológicos, sugerimos que a espécie seja categorizada como Dados Insuficientes (DD) pelos critérios da UICN.(AU)

Glossidiella peruensis sp. nov., a new digenean (Plagiorchiida: Plagiorchiidae) from the lung of the brown ground snake Atractus major (Serpentes: Dipsadidae) from Peru

During a survey of helminth parasites of the brown ground snake, Atractus major Boulenger, 1894 (Serpentes: Dipsadidae) from Moyobamba, region of San Martin (northeastern Peru), a new species of Glossidiella Travassos, 1927 (Plagiorchiida: Plagiorchiidae) was found and is described herein based on morphological and ultrastructural data. The digeneans found in the lung were measured and drawings were made with a drawing tube. The ultrastructure was studied using scanning electron microscope. Glossidiella peruensis sp. nov. is easily distinguished from the type- and only species of the genus, Glossidiella ornata Travassos, 1927, by having an oblong cirrus sac (claviform in G. ornata), distinctly ovate testes (rounded testes in G. ornata) and button-like papillae on the dorsal edge of the oral sucker region (absent in G. ornata). In addition, G. peruensis sp. nov. differs from G. ornata by possessing a longer distance between testes and substantially wider oral and ventral suckers. This is the first time that a species of digenean is described and reported parasitizing snakes in Peru.

Glossidiella peruensis sp. nov., a new digenean (Plagiorchiida: Plagiorchiidae) from the lung of the brown ground snake Atractus major (Serpentes: Dipsadidae) from Peru

During a survey of helminth parasites of the brown ground snake, Atractus major Boulenger, 1894 (Serpentes: Dipsadidae) from Moyobamba, region of San Martin (northeastern Peru), a new species of Glossidiella Travassos, 1927 (Plagiorchiida: Plagiorchiidae) was found and is described herein based on morphological and ultrastructural data. The digeneans found in the lung were measured and drawings were made with a drawing tube. The ultrastructure was studied using scanning electron microscope. Glossidiella peruensis sp. nov. is easily distinguished from the type- and only species of the genus, Glossidiella ornata Travassos, 1927, by having an oblong cirrus sac (claviform in G. ornata), distinctly ovate testes (rounded testes in G. ornata) and button-like papillae on the dorsal edge of the oral sucker region (absent in G. ornata). In addition, G. peruensis sp. nov. differs from G. ornata by possessing a longer distance between testes and substantially wider oral and ventral suckers. This is the first time that a species of digenean is described and reported parasitizing snakes in Peru.(AU)

Molecular phylogeny of the tribe Philodryadini Cope, 1886 (Dipsadidae: Xenodontinae): Rediscovering the diversity of the South American Racers

South American racers of the tribe Philodryadini are a widespread and diverse group of Neotropical snakes with a complex taxonomic and systematic history. Recent studies failed to present a robust phylogenetic hypothesis for the tribe, mainly due to incomplete taxon sampling. Here we provide the most extensive molecular phylogenetic analysis of Philodryadini available so far, including 20 species (83% of the known diversity) from which six were not sampled previously. Our results reveal that Philodryadini is not monophyletic, but instead includes a central Andean clade formed by Philodryas simonsii, P. tachymenoides, and P. amaru, and a southern and cis-Andean clade including all remaining philodryadines. This discovery requires resurrection of two genera as well as erection of a new tribe of Xenodontinae for the central Andean clade. Within the southern and cis-Andean radiation, our analyses resolve a basal dichotomy separating two main lineages: Clade A, containing the Common Green Racers P. laticeps and P. viridissima and the South American Vine snakes P. georgeboulengeri and P. argentea; and Clade B, including the remaining species of Philodryas sensu stricto. We resurrect the genera Chlorosoma and Xenoxybelis to better represent the monophyly of lineages within the southern and cis-Andean clade.

Molecular phylogeny of the tribe Philodryadini Cope, 1886 (Dipsadidae: Xenodontinae): Rediscovering the diversity of the South American Racers

South American racers of the tribe Philodryadini are a widespread and diverse group of Neotropical snakes with a complex taxonomic and systematic history. Recent studies failed to present a robust phylogenetic hypothesis for the tribe, mainly due to incomplete taxon sampling. Here we provide the most extensive molecular phylogenetic analysis of Philodryadini available so far, including 20 species (83% of the known diversity) from which six were not sampled previously. Our results reveal that Philodryadini is not monophyletic, but instead includes a central Andean clade formed by Philodryas simonsii, P. tachymenoides, and P. amaru, and a southern and cis-Andean clade including all remaining philodryadines. This discovery requires resurrection of two genera as well as erection of a new tribe of Xenodontinae for the central Andean clade. Within the southern and cis-Andean radiation, our analyses resolve a basal dichotomy separating two main lineages: Clade A, containing the Common Green Racers P. laticeps and P. viridissima and the South American Vine snakes P. georgeboulengeri and P. argentea; and Clade B, including the remaining species of Philodryas sensu stricto. We resurrect the genera Chlorosoma and Xenoxybelis to better represent the monophyly of lineages within the southern and cis-Andean clade.(AU)

Non-Avian Reptiles of the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: status of knowledge and commented list

We assessed the current knowledge on non-avian reptile species composition in the state of Rio de Janeiro (RJ), southeastern Brazil. We used published data in indexed journals and verified voucher specimens housed in the herpetological collections of the Museu Nacional (UFRJ), and the Laboratory of Reptiles (ZUFRJ). We also confirmed vouchers from Instituto Vital Brazil (IVB) and from the Museum of Comparative Zoology (MCZ). We compiled a list containing 149 species of reptiles, distributed among Testudines (N = 15), Crocodylia (N = 1) and Squamata (N = 133; six amphisbaenians, 38 lizards and 89 snakes). Our results add 20 species to the previous list known for the state. Four species recorded are endemic to the state of Rio de Janeiro (Anolis neglectus, Glaucomastix littoralis, Leposternon scutigerum, and Liolaemus lutzae). We identified that 21 reptile species recorded in RJ state (nearly 15% of the total) are included in some threat category either in the IUCN, Brazilian (ICMBio) or state lists of endangered species. We also report that seven of the reptiles recorded are non-indigenous to the state: Cnemidophorus aff. lemniscatus (= Cnemidophorus cryptus), Anolis sagrei, Trachemys scripta, Trachemys dorbigni, Hemidactylus mabouia, Crotalus durissus terrificus, and Rhinoclemmys punctularia. The checklist presented here provides a comprehensive database for further research on the herpetofauna of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest.