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Hematology As Related To Diving Characteristics Of Elaphe Obsoleta, Nerodia Erythrogaster, Nerodia Fasciata And Nerodia Rhombifera, Dennis A. Baeyens, M. W. Patterson, Chris T. Mcallister

Journal of the Arkansas Academy of Science

The diving capabilities of Nerodia erythrogaster flavigaster and Nerodia fasciata confluens were investigated and the results were compared with similar studies on Nerodia rhombifera rhombifera and Elaphe obsoleta obsoleta (Baeyens et al., 1978). In addition, morphological and hematological parameters contributing to underwater survival were examined. The duration of underwater survival for N. erythrogaster and N. fasciata was approximately one hour with no difference between the species. The lung volumes of the two species were also similar but were significantly less than lung volumes reported for E. obsoleta. There were no significant differences in hemoglobin concentration, red blood cell count or …