Varanus exanthematicus - Scientific data & interesting finds

[infernalis]

Rather than me starting a new thread each time I discover something of interest, I will simply post the information and/or links to this thread.

Warning, this is a dissection photo sequence....

Dissection Photos - Bosc Monitor (https://sites.google.com/site/vshssgu2006/varanusexanthematicusexanthematicus)

[dinosaurdammit]

their lungs are surprisingly small :O

[infernalis]

more room for that bottomless stomach to fit in there. ;)

[infernalis]

Daniel Bennett's research papers..

http://library.mampam.com/bennett2000dietofvaranusexanthematicus.pdf

http://library.mampam.com/bennettbullchicherpsoc.pdf

[jarich]

their lungs are surprisingly small :O

Looking at single slides is a little misleading, as you have to add up all the tissue you see in the various slides. (They are basically progression shots as the author digs deeper/removes tissue) Their lungs are actually quite large.

[infernalis]

Thank you Josh..

Digimorph - Varanus exanthematicus (Savannah monitor) (http://digimorph.org/specimens/Varanus_exanthematicus/)

Ca2 cycling in cardiomyocytes from a high performance reptile the varanid lizard Varanus exanthematicus (http://www.torna.do/s/Ca2-cycling-in-cardiomyocytes-from-a-high-performance-reptile-the-varanid-lizard-Varanus-exanthematicus-/)

[murrindindi]

their lungs are surprisingly small :O

Hi, in actual fact their lungs are relatively large in comparison to most lizards and have around 3x the volume, they are also the only reptiles with multi cameral lungs.

[infernalis]

Not the only Stefan, Crocadilians also have multi cameral lungs.

(or so I have read in biology literature) ;)

I also have read that the trachea has the unique ability to move out of the way while swallowing large prey items to avoid undue pressure or damage during the swallowing process.

ScienceDirect.com - Respiration Physiology - Lung architecture, volume and static mechanics in five species of lizards (http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/003456877890049X)

[murrindindi]

Not the only Stefan, Crocadilians also have multi cameral lungs.

(or so I have read in biology literature) ;)

I also have read that the trachea has the unique ability to move out of the way while swallowing large prey items to avoid undue pressure or damage during the swallowing process.

Wayne, you`re quite right, I know crocs also have them. My mind at times has a mind of it`s own, as do my fingers when I`m typing the words.
May I tell everyone that you told me Varanids were the only reptiles to have that adaptation, otherwise I`ll feel silly. (And you already do, so no harm done).... :bouncy:
Yes, the tongue sheath is moved back out of the way, it can also be pushed forward during ingestion of larger prey (as in snakes, but NOT crocodilians) so they can still breath.

[varanus_mad]

If you wouldnt mind adding these to the monitor FAQ on the RFUK thread mate it would be appreciated.

[infernalis]

sure, no problem.