Journal
PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Volume 106, Issue 22, Pages 8969-8974Publisher
NATL ACAD SCIENCES
DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0810883106
Keywords
evolution; phylogeny; squamate; protein; toxin
Categories
Funding
- Australian Academy of Science
- Australian French Association for Science and Technology
- Australia and Pacific Science Foundation
- Australian Research Council [DP0665971, DP0772814]
- CASS Foundation
- Ian Potter Foundation
- International Human Frontiers Science Program Organisation
- Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research
- University of Melbourne
- Department of Innovation, Industry and Regional Development Victoria Fellowship
- Australian Government Department of Education, Science and Training International Science Linkages
- Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute
- University of New South Wales
- Australian Research Council [DP0665971, DP0772814] Funding Source: Australian Research Council
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The predatory ecology of Varanus komodoensis (Komodo Dragon) has been a subject of long-standing interest and considerable conjecture. Here, we investigate the roles and potential interplay between cranial mechanics, toxic bacteria, and venom. Our analyses point to the presence of a sophisticated combined-arsenal killing apparatus. We find that the lightweight skull is relatively poorly adapted to generate high bite forces but better adapted to resist high pulling loads. We reject the popular notion regarding toxic bacteria utilization. Instead, we demonstrate that the effects of deep wounds inflicted are potentiated through venom with toxic activities including anticoagulation and shock induction. Anatomical comparisons of V. komodoensis with V. (Megalania) priscus fossils suggest that the closely related extinct giant was the largest venomous animal to have ever lived.
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