Introduction
For a very extended period of time, most knowledge of komodo dragon prey inhibition was attributed to their overall large size, and for the tendency for their mouths to be habituated by sepsis-causing bacterial species. Only in 2009 was it discovered that they have venom glands and that they are capable of administering venom when they bite. Before this discovery, it was thought that venom production in extant squamate reptiles had only occurred in certain genii of snakes, and in the Heloderma genus (common name: Gila Monsters)(3). Some Varanus species can now be added to that list, including V. komodoensis. Since the discovery of this venom production has occurred, speculation has began as to why the komodo has evolved such function. It has been shown through research that the komodo dragon's jaw structure is not able to resist the pressure exerted on it during long struggles with prey items(4). The komodo contains a rear-fanged delivery system, where the fangs are located near the back of the jaw (4,5). This allows the Komodo to get a deep bite on the prey, inject their venom, and not have to strain their jaw by struggling with their prey. The vasodilative, anticoagulative, and hyperalgesic effects from the venom should cause shock in the prey item, causing quicker incapacitation. This quick method of incapactiation can be necessary in some of the prey items of komodo dragons, especially larger prey items such as wild boars and deer (3).
Displayed below is a video clip from the series Life displaying the hunting tactics a komodo dragon uses against larger prey items (7). In this clip, a buffalo is the target of the komodo dragon. Notice how the komodo only uses swift, short bites against the buffalo to avoid getting injured.
Displayed below is a video clip from the series Life displaying the hunting tactics a komodo dragon uses against larger prey items (7). In this clip, a buffalo is the target of the komodo dragon. Notice how the komodo only uses swift, short bites against the buffalo to avoid getting injured.
Personal Interest
Our group is interested in this venom/toxin because of its recent discovery. It was surprising to learn that a species of monitor lizard with such a large size would also have evolved the ability to produce venom. We are also interested in the similarities some of the toxins found in the venom have to other natural analogs. For example, the natriuretic type toxin in Komodo venom is very similar to natriuretic peptides found naturally in humans. Lastly, we believe that the vasodilative properties of the toxins have potential medical uses in helping control blood pressure, inhibiting blood clotting, and enhancing muscle paralysis during surgery. In this website we will be providing information and insight on these topics based on the research we performed.