Atractaspis (Serpentes, Atractaspididae) the burrowing asp; a multidisciplinary minireview

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Abstract
Dedication 91History 91Taxonomy 91Distribution 92Behaviour 92Venom apparatus 93Venom 93Evolution 97Acknowledgements 98References 98The family Atractaspididae is a highly modified derivative of a lineage that apparently arose early in the history of ‘colubroid’ snakes, and its taxonomy and relationship with other ophidian groups is still uncertain. Snakes of the genus Atractaspis have a characteristic venom apparatus, including the structure and function of the striking unit and of the venom glands. The composition of their venom is also unique in containing several low-molecular weight components, the sarafotoxins, which affect the cardiovascular system and are similar to the mammalian endothelins.

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