Estimating prey size and number in crayfish-eating snakes, genus Regina
Herpetologica
By: J.S. Godley, R.W. McDiarmid, and N.N. Rojas
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Abstract
Snakes of the genus Regina feed almost exclusively on crayfish. The paired, symmetrical gastroliths of crayfish are not digested and are detectable from x-rays of the snake. Gastrolith length is directly proportional to carapace length and can be obtained from x-rays. Carapace length can be converted to kcal of ingested energy. Using these relationships and repeated captures of radio-telemetered Regina, estimates of food consumption and energy intake by freeliving snakes are feasible. New information on prey selectivity, feeding behavior, and predator-prey size relations in Regina grahami and R. septemvittata are presented and compared with similar data for other snakes.
Suggested Citation
Godley, J., McDiarmid, R., and Rojas, N., 1984, Estimating prey size and number in crayfish-eating snakes, genus Regina: Herpetologica, v. 40, no. 1, p. 82-88.
| Publication type | Article |
|---|---|
| Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
| Title | Estimating prey size and number in crayfish-eating snakes, genus Regina |
| Series title | Herpetologica |
| Volume | 40 |
| Issue | 1 |
| Year Published | 1984 |
| Language | English |
| Contributing office(s) | Patuxent Wildlife Research Center |
| Description | 82-88 |
| Larger Work Type | Article |
| Larger Work Subtype | Journal Article |
| Larger Work Title | Herpetologica |
| First page | 82 |
| Last page | 88 |