IISc-study develops 'venom maps' of deadly snake in India, can help predict nature of snake bite

Researchers have developed "venom maps" using local climate conditions that could help predict the venom characteristics of Russell's viper, a deadly snake found widely in India.

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A team of researchers from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, said the venom maps could help clinicians select the most appropriate treatment for patients with snake bites. The findings of the research have been published in the journal "PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases”.

Author Kartik Sunagar from the Centre for Ecological Sciences, IISc said, "Russell’s viper is arguably the clinically most important snake species in the world. It kills and maims more people than any other snake species."

"As a result, it is important to precisely unravel the composition, activity and potency of Russell's viper venoms and understand the role of biotic and abiotic factors in shaping them," he added.