Duvernoy's gland
Anatomical structure in snakes
Duvernoy's gland is a specialized salivary gland found in some colubrid snakes. It is named after the French anatomist Georges Louis Duvernoy, who first described it. This gland is considered to be homologous to the venom glands found in venomous snakes, although it is not as well-developed or potent.
Anatomy[edit | edit source]
Duvernoy's gland is located posterior to the eye and is connected to the maxillary teeth by a duct. The gland is typically elongated and lobulated, resembling the structure of other salivary glands. It is surrounded by a fibrous capsule and is composed of serous cells that produce a secretion.
Function[edit | edit source]
The primary function of Duvernoy's gland is to produce a secretion that aids in the subduing and digestion of prey. The secretion contains a mixture of enzymes and proteins that can have mild toxic effects on prey, facilitating capture and ingestion. In some species, the secretion has been shown to have anticoagulant properties, which may help in the digestion process.
Evolutionary Significance[edit | edit source]
Duvernoy's gland is of particular interest in the study of snake evolution. It is considered an intermediate form between the simple salivary glands of non-venomous snakes and the highly specialized venom glands of advanced venomous snakes such as elapids and viperids. This gland provides insight into the evolutionary transition from non-venomous to venomous snakes.
Species Variation[edit | edit source]
Not all colubrid snakes possess Duvernoy's gland, and its presence and development can vary significantly among species. In some species, the gland is well-developed and produces a secretion with noticeable effects on prey, while in others, it is rudimentary or absent.
Clinical Relevance[edit | edit source]
While Duvernoy's gland is not as potent as the venom glands of more advanced snakes, bites from snakes possessing this gland can still cause mild symptoms in humans, such as swelling and discomfort. It is important for medical professionals to be aware of the potential effects of bites from colubrid snakes with Duvernoy's gland.
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