Systematic review and distribution of the genus Pseudocerastes (Boulenger, 1896) (Ophidia: Viperidae) in Iran

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Razi University, 6714967346 Kermanshah, Iran.

2 Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Yasouj University, Yasouj. Iran

3 Faculty of Paramedicine Ilam University, Ilam, Iran

Abstract

The genus Pseudocerastes Boulenger, 1896 is one of the eight genera of snakes of the family Viperidae in Iran, which are noted for their venom system and structures such as tail and false horns. The species is distributed from northeastern Africa eastward to Jordan, Iraq, northern Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Iran, Pakistan, Afghanistan and an isolated population in northern Oman. Two species of this genus, P. persicus and P. urarachnoides, are distributed in Iran. P. urarachnoides is a unique species in terms of hunting method using a spider-shaped structure in the tail. In addition, it is unique in terms of cheek camouflage. Considering that a suitable source is not available based on the sources of occurrence in different dimensions of this genus, this article is based on various research studies, comparing the species of the genus Pseudocerastes in terms of taxonomy, biogeographical distribution, toxicological system, molecular and evolutionary studies, morphology and Biology is paid.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Biodiversity and Animal Taxonomy
Volume 2, Issue 2 - Serial Number 2
March 2023
Pages 290-297

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History

  • Receive Date: 02 December 2022
  • Revise Date: 02 April 2023
  • Accept Date: 17 April 2024

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