Research Information System
INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH AND INNOVATION CONGRESS-II, Adana, Turkey, 18 December 2024, pp.1-5, (Full Text)
ABSTRACT
Thanatosis, or death-feigning, is an anti-predator defense mechanism observed across a wide range of taxa, including reptiles. This behavior involves temporarily assuming immobility and a lifeless state, often accompanied by additional features such as tongue protrusion, mouth gaping, and the emission of foul-smelling substances. These adaptations are particularly effective in evading predation, as many predators lose interest in unresponsive or seemingly dead prey.This study investigates the prevalence of thanatosis in Natrix species based on observations from a long-term monitoring project. We aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the prevalence of this intriguing behavior within the repertoire of freshwater snakes.During the monitoring project conducted in Afyon and Denizli, Türkiye, we handled 1,889 individuals of Natrix species and recorded instances of thanatosis. Initially, all individuals attempted to flee. Many excreted a malodorous liquid from their postanal glands, although this behavior was not quantified. None of the individuals exhibited biting or attacking behavior when captured. Among the 1,690 specimens of Natrix tessellata, only nine displayed thanatosis, while none of the 199 Natrix natrix specimens exhibited this behavior. This corresponds to a prevalence rate of 0.48% among the captured Natrix specimens.
Keywords: Death-feigning, thanatosis, anti-predator behaviour, freshwater snake