Expedition: Vietnam A Herpetologist's Story A Herpetologist's Story - A snake on a leaf

In the field In the lab Straight from Dr. Fitzhugh

In the lab... with a Marine Biologist!

Perhaps one of the most exciting things for Dr. Fitzhugh to do when we returned was to let his colleague know he had discovered infected snails not only in the location they expected them, but in an entirely different location as well. Before even unpacking, he shot off an e-mail to share the news:

October 4, 2001, Hi Greg, Returned from Vietnam on Fri. I was able to get to Cao Bang and the Cau River, (thank goodness!). I was able to extract worms alive in my hotel room and also brought back a ton of snails. I was so amazed at the similarity in appearance and behavior of Caobangia to Terebrasabella. I was also struck at the difference in infestation between the two localities. Given that these are distinctly different drainages, maybe there are two species. I will be able to look at specimens tomorrow. I'll also try to get some shells x-rayed. Anyway, still trying to get over the jet lag and will write more later about what I find. Best, Kirk
 An E-mail from Dr. Fitzhugh
Using special microscopes to help him take a closer look at his specimens, Kirk was able to identify two different species of worm. This is exciting news and he has big plans to present this information to his colleagues. He also hopes for future trips back to Vietnam to learn more about these unique creatures.

Snakes in the Museum's collections Specimen Investigation
Dr. Kizirian sorts through the specimens that have been brought back from the field. He'll work with his staff in getting them identified and catalogued into the museum's collections.

DNA electrophoresis bands Molecular Work
One way that Dr. Kizirian classifies reptiles and amphibians is through DNA work. This printout shows the arrangement of DNA of one animal. By comparing it to arrangements from other types of animals, he can better determine how many species they are and how they are related.

In the field In the lab Straight from Dr. Kizirian

For more information, contact expeditions@nhm.org. A joint project of the Education Division and Research and Collections at
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