A Histological Study on Venom Apparatus of Montivipera xanthina (Gray, 1849) (Serpentes, Viperidae)

ABSTRACT

ABSTRACT This is the first report describing morphological and histological structure of venom apparatus in Montivipera xanthina. The venom gland apparatus of M. xanthina was composed of four distinct parts, main venom gland, primary duct, accessory gland and secondary duct. The main venom gland was composed of acini. The accessory gland was formed by long and ramified tubules. Nine fangs were detected in one half of the upper jaw each at different stage of development. Only one tooth was functional and the eight remaining fangs form a replacement series. The venom apparatus of viperid snakes are the most effective venom-delivery system among vertebrates and have been the focus of scientific interests for many years. Despite this interest, there are few studies including venom-delivery system of venomous snakes. The results presented here may be common among venomous snakes and model of the viperid design of the venom apparatus.