Intraspecific variation in content of a basic toxin in eastern diamondback rattlesnake (Crotalus adamanteus) venom

Venom samples from four specimens of Crotalus adamanteus from the same litter were analyzed for the content of a basic toxin by gel filtration. Whereas the venoms of two snakes were essentially free of the toxin, two other contained about 5% and 11% toxin (w/w). The individual absence or presence of the toxin in the venom was constant, suggesting a genetically determined variation.