Boa Constrictor Research Articles

Predation of Boa constrictor (Squamata: Boidae) by Cerdocyon thous (Carnivora: Canidae) in a Caatinga biome region in the state of Piauí, northeastern Brazil

Predation of Boa constrictor (Squamata: Boidae) by Cerdocyon thous (Carnivora: Canidae) in a Caatinga biome region in the state of Piauí, northeastern Brazil

Histological aspects of the renal sexual segment of Brazilian snakes of the Boidae family.

Snakes represent a wide and diverse group of species and have anatomical particularities, such as the renal sexual segment (RSS), a structure located in the kidneys and formed from the hypertrophy of the urinary ducts and nephrons. This study aims at describing the histological aspects of the RSS of Boa constrictor, Epicrates cenchria and Corallus hortulanus, all of which are Brazilian snake species from the Boidae family. The reproductive system and kidneys of five male specimens of E. cenchria, three male specimens of C. hortulanus and two male specimens of B. constrictor were obtained. Tissue samples were processed histologically and different stains used (Toluidine Blue, Alcian Blue and Periodic Acid Schiff). The histological evaluation of the RSS of E. cenchria, C. hortulanus and B. constrictor shows that the RSS in these species varies when comparing individuals in the reproductive period with those which are not. It also allows for the observation of the segment's secretory activity in animals in the reproductive stage (mature sperm in the lumen of the seminiferous tubules) as well as in those which are not. Finally, the histological evaluation also reveals the variation of the secretion product in individuals in the reproductive period, in those which are not, and also among individuals within the same reproductive stage.

The good, the bad and the boa: An unexpected new species of a true boa revealed by morphological and molecular evidence.

Snakes of the genus Boa are outstanding elements of the New World biota with a broad sociological influence on pop culture. Historically, several taxa have been recognized in the past 300 years, being mostly described in the early days of binomial nomenclature. As a rule, these taxa were recognized based on a suite of phenotypic characters mainly those from the external morphology. However, there is a huge disagreement with respect to the current taxonomy and available molecular phylogenies. In order to reconcile both lines of evidence, we investigate the phylogenetic reconstruction (using mitochondrial and nuclear genes) of the genus in parallel to the detailed study of some phenotypic systems from a geographically representative sample of the cis-Andean mainland Boa constrictor. We used cyt-b only (744bp) from 73 samples, and cyt-b, ND4, NTF3, and ODC partial sequences (in a total of 2305 bp) from 35 samples, comprising nine currently recognized taxa (species or subspecies), to infer phylogenetic relationships of boas. Topologies recovered along all the analyses and genetic distances obtained allied to a unique combination of morphological traits (colouration, pholidosis, meristic, morphometric, and male genitalia features) allowed us to recognize B. constrictor lato sensu, B. nebulosa, B. occidentalis, B. orophias and a distinct lineage from the eastern coast of Brazil, which we describe here as a new species, diagnosing it from the previously recognized taxa. Finally, we discuss the minimally necessary changes in the taxonomy of Boa constrictor complex; the value of some usually disregarded phenotypic character system; and we highlight the urgency of continuing environmental policy to preserve one of the most impacted Brazilian hotspots, the Atlantic Forest, which represents an ecoregion full of endemism.

ECR Spotlight – Jarrod Petersen

ECR Spotlight is a series of interviews with early-career authors from a selection of papers published in Journal of Experimental Biology and aims to promote not only the diversity of early-career researchers (ECRs) working in experimental biology but also the huge variety of animals and physiological systems that are essential for the ‘comparative’ approach. Jarrod Petersen is an author on ‘ Effects of ingesting large prey on the kinematics of rectilinear locomotion in Boa constrictor’, published in JEB. Jarrod is a PhD candidate in the lab of Dr Thomas Roberts at Brown University, USA, investigating the ways in which anatomy and muscle physiology allow non-model systems to preform bizarre behaviors, such as large prey ingestion in snakes.

Effects of ingesting large prey on the kinematics of rectilinear locomotion in Boa constrictor.

Large and stout snakes commonly consume large prey and use rectilinear crawling; yet, whether body wall distention after feeding impairs rectilinear locomotion is poorly understood. After eating large prey (30-37% body mass), all Boa constrictor tested could perform rectilinear locomotion in the region with the food bolus despite a greatly increased distance between the ribs and the ventral skin that likely lengthens muscles relevant to propulsion. Unexpectedly, out of 11 kinematic variables, only two changed significantly (P<0.05) after feeding: cyclic changes in snake height increased by more than 1.5 times and the longitudinal movements of the ventral skin relative to the skeleton decreased by more than 25%. Additionally, cyclic changes in snake width suggest that the ribs are active and mobile during rectilinear locomotion, particularly in fed snakes, but also in unfed snakes. These kinematic changes suggest that rectilinear actuators reorient more vertically and undergo smaller longitudinal excursions following large prey ingestion, both of which likely act to reduce elongation of these muscles that may otherwise experience substantial strain.

Treatment of spectacular dysecdysis in a Boa constrictor snake at Lombok Wildlife Park, Nusa Tenggara Barat

Lombok Wildlife Park is a conservation institution located in Lombok, Nusa Tenggara Barat, and with specialization for wild animals including snake. This paper reports the treatment of spectacular dysecdysis in a Boa constrictor snake. The snake Boly, approximately 1.5 years old with a body weight of 8 ounces, experienced stuck eye caps or spectacular dysecdysis after an incomplete moulting process. There was swelling of the tissue in both eyes, and the boa lost appetite. Treatment was carried out by administering antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs for the first 3 days and continued with supporting supplements in the form of iron and intramuscular vitamin B12 for the next 3 days. The swollen tissue in the left eye burst and caused damage to the eye organs, whereas the dried tissue in the right eye was peeled off manually. The snake's appetite has improved again, and it wants to eat on its own.

Alone and Naked: Reading the Torture of Jesus alongside the Torture of Miriam Leitão

Abstract Recent biblical scholarship has called for more careful and detailed attention to the experiences of torture victims to better understand the crucifixion of Jesus (Menéndez- Antuña 2022). To this end, this article examines the torture of Miriam Leitão, one of Brazil’s most prominent journalists. Leitão’s torture in 1972 is attested in the report Brasil: Nunca Mais (1985), compiled by the Archdiocese of Sao Paulo, which records that she was left in a dark room with a boa constrictor. In 2014 Leitão disclosed in an interview that during her time with the snake she was naked. I argue Leitão’s account of being ‘alone and naked’ offers insights into the repeated stripping of Jesus in the praetorium in Matthew 27:26–31, and his forced nudity on the cross. Recognising crucifixion as torture helps towards understanding and naming the mocking of Jesus as sexual abuse.

Trypanosoma sp. infection in Boa constrictor snakes: morphological, hematological, clinical biochemistry, molecular, and phylogenetic characteristics

Trypanosoma sp. infection in Boa constrictor snakes: morphological, hematological, clinical biochemistry, molecular, and phylogenetic characteristics

Ultrasonographic evaluation of the liver and gallbladder and hepatic histogram of non-venomous snakes.

This study aimed to describe sonographic features of the liver, gallbladder and hepatic histogram from grey-scale ultrasound in three species of healthy non-venomous snakes. Twenty-eight adult snakes were enrolled in the study, including 10 common boas (Boa constrictor), eight black-tailed pythons (Python molurus) and 10 rainbow boas (Epicrates crassus). The snakes fasted for 30 days and were manually restrained while conscious. For B. constrictor and P. molurus the liver and gallbladder were best visualized in ventral recumbency, and E. crassus in dorsal recumbency. A single elongated hepatic lobe was identified in all snakes. The gallbladder was positioned caudal and separated from the liver, with an oval shape and homogeneous anechoic content in the lumen, and thin and regular walls. A region of interest by pixel number was chosen for the liver, fat bodies, left kidney, and splenopancreas. The mean grey level (G) of the organs had significant differences within each species. Standard deviation of grey levels (SG ) had significant differences within B. constrictor and E. crassus. P. molurus had no significant difference among organs. The comparison among snakes showed that E. crassus had G of liver and splenopancreas lower than B. constrictor and P. molurus. The SG of the liver in E. crassus was lowest compared to B. constrictor and P. molurus. P. molurus showed the highest values in mean of G and SG . In conclusion, despite the liver and gallbladder having similar sonographic features, the grey-level histogram showed that liver echotexture and echogenicity differ among species.

First Report of Reptarenavirus in the Invasive Red-tail boa, Boa constrictor Linnaeus, 1758, from Puerto Rico

First Report of Reptarenavirus in the Invasive Red-tail boa, Boa constrictor Linnaeus, 1758, from Puerto Rico

Molecular characterization of a reptarenavirus detected in a Colombian Red-Tailed Boa (Boa constrictor imperator)

The global decline in biodiversity is a matter of great concern for members of the class Reptilia. Reptarenaviruses infect snakes, and have been linked to various clinical conditions, such as Boid Inclusion Body Disease (BIBD) in snakes belonging to the families Boidae and Pythonidae. However, there is a scarcity of information regarding reptarenaviruses found in snakes in both the United States and globally. This study aimed to contribute to the understanding of reptarenavirus diversity by molecularly characterizing a reptarenavirus detected in a Colombian Red-Tailed Boa (Boa constrictor imperator). Using a metagenomics approach, we successfully identified, and de novo assembled the whole genomic sequences of a reptarenavirus in a Colombian Red-Tailed Boa manifesting clinically relevant symptoms consistent with BIBD. The analysis showed that the Colombian Red-Tailed Boa in this study carried the University of Giessen virus (UGV-1) S or S6 (UGV/S6) segment and L genotype 7. The prevalence of the UGV/S6 genotype, in line with prior research findings, implies that this genotype may possess specific advantageous characteristics or adaptations that give it a competitive edge over other genotypes in the host population. This research underscores the importance of monitoring and characterizing viral pathogens in captive and wild snake populations. Knowledge of such viruses is crucial for the development of effective diagnostic methods, potential intervention strategies, and the conservation of vulnerable reptilian species. Additionally, our study provides valuable insights for future studies focusing on the evolutionary history, molecular epidemiology, and biological properties of reptarenaviruses in boas and other snake species.

Predation of Atelocynus microtis and Speothos venaticus (Carnivora: Canidae) by Boa constrictor (Squamata: Boidae) in Southwestern Brazil and Southeastern Peru

Literature on the predation ecology of Amazonian canids is scarce, especially for the two rarely observed canids; Speothos venaticus (Bush Dog) and Atelocynus microtis (Short-eared Dog). Between 2000 and 2005 we documented one observation of predation of a A. microtis from southeastern Peru and an observation of S. venaticus predation from southwestern Brazil.

Sarcocystis sp. shed by the common boa snake (Boa constrictor) in Brazil

The genus Sarcocystis contains around 200 species and 25 of these infect snakes. Two Sarcocystis spp. shed by snakes have called special attention of the scientific community. S. nesbitti, which is shed by scrub pythons (Simalia amethistina), causes myopathy in humans that consume water or food contaminated with the parasite. Sporocysts of S. singaporensis, excreted by reticulated pythons (Malayopython reticulatus), is letal for rats and was successfully tested in the biological control of these rodents. A high biodiversity of snakes is found in Brazil, however, scarce information is available about Sarcocystis spp. in Brazilian snakes. Herein, we investigated Sarcocystis sp. in feces of the common boa (Boa constrictor) from Salvador, as it is widely distributed in Brazil and it is also bred in other countries. Feces of 65 boas were examined, and Sarcocystis sp. was found in 1/65 (1.53%) snakes. All snakes were alive, and for this reason, intestinal scrapping, which is the most sensitive method to detect the parasite, was not performed. Morphometric evaluation of sporocysts showed significant differences in their sizes. PCR and multilocus sequencing of four genetic markers (cox1, 18S, ITS1, and 28S) revealed that sporocysts corresponded to a new Sarcocystis species. Sequences of cox1 and 18S had identities of 100% and higher than 98%, respectively, with sequences obtained from the rodent Lagostomus maximus in Argentina. ITS1 and 28S sequences did not match with any known Sarcocystis sp. No ITS1 and 28S sequences were available for the Sarcocystis sp. found in the Argentinian L.maximus. Bioassay using the boa sporocysts was conducted in three mouse lineages and in Rattus norvegicus, but no parasitic stages were detected in these rodents. We concluded that the common boa is probably the definitive host of a new species of Sarcocystis sp. that has L. maximus or related rodents as intermediate hosts.

Wild fauna as roadkill on a highway in the semiarid region of northeastern Brazil

The death of wild vertebrates run over by motor vehicles on highways is one of the main causes of the loss of wildlife diversity. The aim of the present study was to investigate the diversity of wild fauna in roadkill incidents on a stretch of highway in the semiarid region of Brazil. The survey was conducted between March 2020 and May 2021 through active searches using a motorcycle. Killed vertebrates were analyzed and photographed in situ. Wild fauna was studied based on ecological descriptors, speed of movement and average rate of roadkill incidents. We compared total observed richness to that expected using nonparametric estimators. A total of 464 road-killed vertebrates were represented by two species of amphibians, 17 reptiles, 17 birds and 10 mammals. Amphibians were the most affected, totaling 245 individuals. Colubridae was the family with the largest number of species affected. Boiruna sertaneja and Boa constrictor were the only medium-size to large snakes killed. Herpailurus yagouaroundi and Leopardus tigrinus are respectively categorized as “least concern” and “vulnerable” according to the IUCN. The species accumulation curves continued to rise, showing no sign of approaching to an asymptote. Chao 2 and Jack 2 were the main estimators for road-killed wild vertebrates considering total richness. The diversity reported here is considered to be underestimated and greater monthly sampling efforts are required. Conservation strategies are urgently needed for the protection of wild vertebrate fauna to mitigate the staggering loss of biodiversity caused by the construction and operation of roads and highways in Brazil.

Reptarenavirus S Segment RNA Levels Correlate with the Presence of Inclusion Bodies and the Number of L Segments in Snakes with Reptarenavirus Infection-Lessons Learned from a Large Breeding Colony.

Reptarenaviruses cause boid inclusion body disease (BIBD), a fatal disease particularly impacting captive boa constrictor collections. The development of cytoplasmic inclusion bodies (IBs) comprising reptarenavirus nucleoprotein (NP) in many cell types of affected snakes is characteristic of BIBD. However, snakes can harbor reptarenaviruses without showing IBs, hence representing carriers and a potential source of transmission. The RNA genome of reptarenaviruses comprises a small (S) and a large (L) segment, and the snakes with BIBD commonly carry a swarm of reptarenavirus segments. To design sensitive and reliable tools for the diagnosis of reptarenavirus infection in snake colonies, we used metatranscriptomics to determine the reptarenavirus segments present in a large boa constrictor breeding colony. The analysis identified one reptarenavirus S segment and three L segments in the colony. The sequence data served to design real-time reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) targeting the found S segment. This allowed us to identify all infected animals and to quantify the S segment RNA levels, which we found to correlate with the presence of IBs. We further found a positive correlation between the number of L segments and the S segment RNA level, which could suggest that L segment excess also contributes to the IB formation. Information on cohousing of the snakes showed a clear association of reptarenavirus infection with cohousing in general and cohousing with infected animals. Information on breeding and offspring confirmed that vertical transmission occurred. Furthermore, our data suggest that some animals might be able to clear the infection or at least exhibit transient or intermittent viremia. IMPORTANCE Boid inclusion body disease (BIBD) is caused by reptarenavirus infection, and while reptarenavirus nucleoprotein is the main component of the inclusion bodies (IBs) characteristic of BIBD, not all reptarenavirus-infected snakes demonstrate IBs in their cells. Identification of infected individuals is critical for controlling the spread of the disease; however, the genetic divergence of reptarenaviruses complicates reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR)-based diagnostics. Here, we tested a next-generation-sequencing-based approach to establish a tailored "colony-specific" set of diagnostic tools for the detection of reptarenavirus small (S) and large (L) genome segments. With this approach, we could demonstrate that an S-segment-specific RT-PCR is highly effective in identifying the infected individuals. We further found the S segment RNA level to positively correlate with the presence of IBs and the number of L segments, which could direct future studies to identify the BIBD pathogenetic mechanisms.

First description of Candida haemulonii infecting a snake Boa constrictor: Molecular, pathological and antifungal sensitivity characteristics

Candida haemulonii is an emergent infectious pathogen that affects human presenting comorbidities and/or immunodepression. Little is known about other possible hosts. For the first time, this fungus was found causing a cutaneous infection in a snake, Boa constrictor, characterized by scale opacity and several ulcerative lesions. This C. haemulonii was isolated, identified using molecular techniques and a phylogenetic study, and had its growth totally inhibited by all the drugs tested; however, no fungicide effect was seen for fluconazole and itraconazole. The B. constrictor clinical signals subsided after a treatment using a biogenic silver nanoparticle-based ointment. These findings, along with the B. constrictor presence near human habitats, warn for the necessity of wildlife health monitoring for emergent and opportunistic diseases in peri-urban environments.

Real Time System for Virtual Keyboard and Mouse

These days, PC vision has advanced to where a PC can perceive its client utilizing an essential picture handling calculation. Individuals are involving this vision in many pieces of day to day existence as of now of improvement, like face acknowledgment, variety identification, programmed vehicles, etc. PC vision is utilized in this examination to make an optical mouse and console that utilizations hand movements. The PC's camera will filter the picture of different developments made by an individual's hand, and the mouse or pointer will move in light of the development of the motions, including doing well and left clicks utilizing particular signals. Essentially, unique motions can be utilized to control the console, for example, a one-finger signal to pick a letters in order and a four figure signal to swipe left and right. Without any wires or different gadgets, it will work as a virtual mouse and console. The venture's just piece of equipment is a webcam, and the coding is finished in Python utilizing the Boa constrictor stage. The Raised body absconds are made first, and afterward a calculation is made by planning the mouse and console capabilities to the blemishes utilizing the imperfection computations. On the off chance that you map ping several them with the mouse and console, the PC will perceive the motion and answer fittingly

Characterization of haemolymphatic tissues in captive Boa constrictor as a basis for functional assessments

Characterization of haemolymphatic tissues in captive Boa constrictor as a basis for functional assessments

Pelvic spur use during courtship and mating in the red-tailed boa Boa constrictor

Pelvic spur use during courtship and mating in the red-tailed boa Boa constrictor

NOTES ABOUT THE PREDATION OF A SHINY COWBIRD Molothrus bonariensis (Icteridae) BY A COMMON BOA Boa constrictor (Boidae), IN MANABÍ, ECUADOR

We present a sightseen of a juvenile Common Boa Boa constrictor preying on an individual of Shiny Cowbird Molothrus bonariensis. The event occurred in Manabí, Ecuador and lasted almost two hours since the attack started until the prey was completely swallowed and the Boa started to move.