Journal article
A central role for venom in predation by Varanus komodoensis (Komodo Dragon) and the extinct giant Varanus ( Megalania) priscus
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, Vol.106(22), pp.8969-8974
2009
Abstract
The predatory ecology of Varanus komodoensis (Komodo Dragon) has been a subject of long-standing interest and considerable conjecture. Here, we investigate the roles and potential interplay between cranial mechanics, toxic bacteria, and venom. Our analyses point to the presence of a sophisticated combined-arsenal killing apparatus. We find that the lightweight skull is relatively poorly adapted to generate high bite forces but better adapted to resist high pulling loads. We reject the popular notion regarding toxic bacteria utilization. Instead, we demonstrate that the effects of deep wounds inflicted are potentiated through venom with toxic activities including anticoagulation and shock induction. Anatomical comparisons of V. komodoensis with V. (Megalania) priscus fossils suggest that the closely related extinct giant was the largest venomous animal to have ever lived.
Details
- Title
- A central role for venom in predation by Varanus komodoensis (Komodo Dragon) and the extinct giant Varanus ( Megalania) priscus
- Authors
- B G Fry (Author) - University of MelbourneS Wroe (Author) - University of MelbourneW Teeuwisse (Author) - Leiden University Medical Center, NetherlandsM J P Van Osch (Author) - Leiden University Medical Center, NetherlandsK Moreno (Author) - Universidad Austral de Chile, ChileJ Ingle (Author) - University of NewcastleC McHenry (Author) - University of NewcastleT Ferrara (Author) - University of NewcastleP Clausen (Author) - University of NewcastleH Scheib (Author) - Scientific and Business Computing Lab AG, SwitzerlandK L Winter (Author) - Monash UniversityL Greisman (Author) - University of MelbourneK Roelants (Author) - Vrije Universiteit Brussel, BelgiumL Van Der Weerd (Author) - Leiden University Medical Center, NetherlandsChristofer J Clemente (Author) - University of Cambridge, United KingdomE Giannakis (Author) - University of Cambridge, United KingdomW C Hodgson (Author) - Monash UniversityS Luz (Author) - Singapore Zoological Gardens, SingaporeP Martelli (Author) - Veterinary Department, Hong KongK Krishnasamy (Author) - Society for the Prevention of Cruelty Against Animals, Hong KongElazar Kochva (Author) - Tel Aviv University, IsraelHang Fai Kwok (Author) - Queens University, United KingdomDenis Scanlon (Author) - University of MelbourneJohn Karas (Author) - University of MelbourneDiane M Citron (Author) - R.M. Alden Research Laboratory, United StatesEllie J C Goldstein (Author) - R.M. Alden Research Laboratory, United StatesJudith E Mcnaughtan (Author)Janette A Norman (Author) - Museum Victoria
- Publication details
- Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, Vol.106(22), pp.8969-8974
- Publisher
- National Academy of Sciences
- Date published
- 2009
- DOI
- 10.1073/pnas.0810883106
- ISSN
- 0027-8424
- Organisation Unit
- School of Science and Engineering - Legacy; University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland; School of Science, Technology and Engineering
- Language
- English
- Record Identifier
- 99450180302621
- Output Type
- Journal article
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