The structural and functional diversification of the Toxicofera reptile venom system

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The evolutionary origin and diversification of the reptilian venom system is described. The
resolution of higher-order molecular phylogenetics has clearly established that a venom
system is ancestral to snakes. The diversification of the venom system within lizards is
discussed, as is the role of venom delivery in the behavioural ecology of these taxa
(particularly Varanus komodoensis). The more extensive diversification of the venom
system in snakes is summarised, including its loss in some clades. Finally, we discuss the
contentious issue of a definition for “venom”, supporting an evolutionary definition that
recognises the homology of both the venom delivery systems and the toxins themselves.

http://www.venomdoc.com/downloads/2012_Fry_Toxicofera_review.pdf