Apomastus schlingeri
Bond & Opell, 2002
Apomastus schlingeri is a venomous trapdoor described by Bond & Opell in 2002. It was originally misidentified as Aptostichus schlingeri before taxonomic revision placed it in the Apomastus. The species is known for producing a complex of neurotoxic called aptotoxins, which function as voltage-gated sodium channel blockers. It is one of only two known species in the genus Apomastus, both restricted to the United States.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Apomastus schlingeri: /ˌæpoʊˈmæstəs ˈʃlɪŋəri/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Distribution
United States
Human Relevance
The of Apomastus schlingeri has been studied for its neurotoxic properties. The aptotoxin complex includes at least nine different peptides, with Aps III identified as the most potent. These peptides are paralytic and lethal to , suggesting potential applications in neurobiological research or pest control, though no commercial applications have been documented.