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Cartilago cordis in serpents
1Department of Biology, Hollins College, Roanoke, Virginia 24020.
The Anatomical Record
|October 1, 1994
Summary
The cartilago cordis, a heart cartilage, was identified in eleven snake species, showing significant variation in form and placement. Its presence appears unrelated to snake characteristics, possibly reflecting general connective tissue potential.
Area of Science:
- Comparative anatomy
- Vertebrate cardiology
- Herpetology
Background:
- The cartilago cordis is a cartilaginous structure found in the vertebrate heart.
- Previous research has documented its presence in various vertebrate groups.
- This study focuses on the cartilago cordis in snakes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe and comparatively analyze the cartilago cordis in snakes.
- To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of the cartilago cordis in different snake species.
Main Methods:
- Histological examination of transverse heart sections.
- Analysis of hearts from 42 snakes representing multiple species.
- Comparative analysis including three monitor lizards as outgroups.
Main Results:
- A cartilago cordis was observed in eleven snake species, located near the aortic trunk and pulmonary artery origins.
- Significant variability was noted in the size, shape, and exact position of the cartilago cordis.
- No correlation was found between the presence of the cartilago cordis and body size, taxonomic group, or habitat.
Conclusions:
- The cartilago cordis in snakes exhibits considerable variation.
- Its presence does not appear to be linked to ecological or phylogenetic factors.
- The cartilago cordis may represent a manifestation of inherent chondrification potential within the aorticopulmonary septum's connective tissue.