Daboia

Daboia is a genus of venomous snakes in the family Viperidae, subfamily Viperinae. The genus includes several species distributed across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, with the best-known member being Daboia russelii, the Russell’s viper. Taxonomic classification of Daboia varies by authority, and some classifications recognize additional species such as Daboia siamensis (Siamese Russell’s viper) and Daboia palaestinae (Palestine viper) in the Levant region.

Description and distribution

Daboia snakes are medium to large, stout vipers with triangular heads and short, thick bodies. They typically display a pattern of crossbands or blotches on a brown, gray, or olive background, though coloration is highly variable by species and locality. They are primarily terrestrial and occupy a range of habitats, including grasslands, scrub, farmland, and river valleys, where they hunt small vertebrates and rodents.

Venom and medical relevance

Daboia venom is generally rich in procoagulant enzymes, producing rapid coagulation abnormalities and bleeding disorders. Envenomation can cause extensive swelling, local tissue damage, neurotoxic symptoms in some cases, and, without prompt treatment, can be life-threatening. Because of their distribution in densely populated regions, Daboia bites are a major cause of snakebite morbidity and mortality in parts of Asia and the Middle East. Effective antivenoms are available in many areas, and urgent medical care is essential.

Biology and conservation

Reproduction varies by species, but many Daboia are viviparous, giving birth to live young. Habitat loss and persecution affect some populations, though the conservation status varies among species and regions.