NEWS – A dedicated serpentarium focusing on research and snakebite management will open in Hunsur, Mysuru district, Karnataka. This initiative aims to address the high mortality rate due to snakebites in the region.

HIGHLIGHTS

Key Features

• Advanced Scientific Lab: Equipped to extract venom from at least seven species of highly venomous snakes.
• Focus on Region-Specific Anti-venom: Unlike other centers, it will focus on producing anti-venom specific to the snakes found in Karnataka.
• Venom Collection from Captive Snakes: Will collect venom from captive snakes, reducing the need to capture wild snakes.
• Collaboration with IISc: Partnership with the Evolutionary Venomics Lab at IISc Bengaluru for research on snake venom toxicity and DNA profiling.

Addressing Snakebite Mortality

• Tackling Shortage of Anti-venom: Aims to address the shortage of effective anti-venom in the state.
• Improving Anti-venom Efficacy: Focus on developing region-specific anti-venom for better treatment outcomes.
• Research on Snake Behavior and Ecology: To gain a deeper understanding of snakebite incidents and inform effective mitigation strategies.

Venom Extraction and Research

• Venom Sources: Will collect venom from the “big four” (spectacled cobra, common krait, Russell’s viper, saw-scaled viper) and other venomous snakes like the Malabar pit viper, hump-nosed pit viper, and king cobra.
• WHO Standards: Venom extraction will adhere to World Health Organization (WHO) standards.
• Venom Supply: Will provide quality venom for free to state-owned or private companies for anti-venom production.

Significance

• Addressing a Major Public Health Issue: Snakebites are a significant public health concern in India, and this initiative aims to address the issue effectively.
• Improving Treatment Outcomes: Region-specific anti-venom will likely lead to improved treatment outcomes and reduced mortality rates.
• Research and Development: The serpentarium will serve as a center for research on snake venom, leading to advancements in anti-venom technology and snakebite management.

Comparison with Existing Practices

• Current Practices: Relies heavily on capturing wild snakes for venom extraction, which can impact snake populations.
• New Approach: Focuses on captive breeding for venom collection, minimizing the impact on wild snake populations.