Crotalus scutulatus

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Crotalus scutulatus
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Subphylum: Vertebrata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Squamata
Suborder: Serpentes
Family: Viperidae
Subfamily: Crotalinae
Genus: Crotalus
Species: C. scutulatus

Crotalus Scutulatus is a venomous rattlesnake species commonly known as the Mohave (Mojave) rattlesnake. Some other names associated with this rattlesnake include the Mojave Green rattlesnake. It is not endangered and it's conservation status is: Least Concern.[1]

Description

Crotalus Scutulatus usually measures between 2' and 4'" long. The rattlesnakes, C. Scutulatus can be identified by the diamond shaped pattern that becomes off-set in color near the snake's tail. The Mohave snake is greenish gray to tannish brown in color. Color variations are based on terrain.[2][3][4]Cite error: Closing </ref> missing for <ref> tag[5]They also tend to be nocturnal.[6]

Hibernation

C. Scutulatus hibernate during the winter months and emerge during spring when they actively seek food.[2]

Reproductive cyle

C. Scutulatus have a bimodal mating pattern. Coitus and reproductive behavior was seen either in the summer/fall or spring seasons. C. Scutulatus give birth to live young and do not lay eggs.[5]Males reach sexual maturation between 16 and 20 months while females reach maturity at 25 months.[5]

Venom

C. Scutulatus venom is one of the most potent. “The Mohave Rattlesnake venom is ten times more toxic than other North American Rattlesnakes”.[7][8] Type A induces neurotoxic effects. Mohave toxin, or a similar toxin, has been detected in the venom of other rattlesnake species. The toxin impairs the presynaptic acetylcholine release. Type B Venom may cause local, proteolytic, andhemorrhagic effects.Renal failure is also reported. Venom B is less lethal than Venom A. Some C. Scutulatus snakes have a combination of both type A and B toxins. Most reported deaths involved the individual intentionally interacting with the Mohave Green.[9]Cite error: Closing </ref> missing for <ref> tag

Snakebite symptoms

Some symptoms reported include muscle weakness, respiratory failure, lethargy, fainting, tachycardia, muscle movements and shock.[9]

Treatment

Immediate medical care should be sought. Antivenom is available, if needed. Do not try to catch the snake to take to the hospital as further injury could occur.[10] [6]


See also

References

  1. Field Guide | EOL: Learning and Education Group. Retrieved on 2011-02-04.
  2. 2.0 2.1 Biogeography of Mojave Rattlesnake. Retrieved on 2011-02-04.
  3. AHA Field Guide - Crotalus scutulatus scutulatus. Retrieved on 2011-02-05.
  4. Arizona Rattlesnakes. Retrieved on 2011-02-05.
  5. 5.0 5.1 5.2 www.michaelcardwell.com. Retrieved on 2011-02-04. Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "urlwww.michaelcardwell.com" defined multiple times with different content
  6. 6.0 6.1 Mojave Rattlesnake (Crotalus scutulatus). Retrieved on 2011-02-04.
  7. SOUTH MOUNTAIN ENVIRONMENTAL AND EDUCATION CENTER RATTLE SNAKES AND GILA MONSTERS. Retrieved on 2011-02-04.
  8. , Wildlife Database Detail - :. Retrieved on 2011-02-04.
  9. 9.0 9.1 Mohave Rattle Snake Envenomation: eMedicine Emergency Medicine. Retrieved on 2011-02-04.
  10. Mohave Rattle Snake Envenomation: Treatment & Medication - eMedicine Emergency Medicine. Retrieved on 2011-02-04.