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Wild Coral Snakes Filmed In Tug-of-War Over Prey In Scientific First
Two red-tailed coral snakes have been spotted fighting over food for the first time ever.
The two extremely venomous snakes have been photographed feasting on the same caecilian. This is the first-ever documented case of kleptoparasitism, or food theft, in the Elapidae snake family.
The documentation has been published in a new study in the international peer-reviewed open access journal of the Austrian Herpetological Society, Herpetozoa. Footage of the serpents appear to show the two snakes in a tug of war, with their jaws tightly gripped around the prey.
The fight between the two snakes took place in the rainforest of Valle del Cauca in western Colombia. During the observation, the study reports that one snake bit the other. It is thought, however, that this was accidental. The battle continued for 17 minutes before one coral snake lost and released the prey to the other. The winning snake then slithered away with its meal.
Two coral snakes are pictured competing over amphibian prey. This is the first documented case of food theft occurring in this species. Two coral snakes are pictured competing over amphibian prey. This is the first documented case of food theft occurring in this species. Henrik Bringsøe and Niels Poul DreyerFood theft has been documented in animal species before. However, the observation among snakes in their natural environment is extremely rare. It is more common with serpents in captive environments, the study reports.
"Snakes in captivity do that often when only one prey is offered in a terrarium with two or more snakes. But it is rather surprising that it has not been observed more frequently in the wild," lead author of the study Henrik Bringsøe said in a statement.
Food theft in the wild are underreported because of the "elusive nature" of these snakes. Observing them in the wild, let alone seeing this type of behaviour, is tricky.
The red-tailed coral snake is an elapid, which is one of the deadliest snake families in the world. There are 400 diverse species in this family including mambas, cobras, kraits, taipans, tiger snakes, death adders, sea snakes and coral snakes. The red-tailed coral snake is native to Central America and northern Southern America.
The study sheds new insight into the snake species and how it interacts with its prey.
"It is well-known that [these snakes] eat caecilians, but this is the first observation of kleptoparasitism in elapid snakes in the wild," the authors wrote in the study.
"It is considered likely that they rely on chemoreception when detecting caecilians, notably in this case as two coral snakes detected the same prey item. In general, kleptoparasitism may occur more frequently amongst snakes than indicated by the very few published cases considering that numerous cases from captivity are known."
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Top 6 Best Coral Calcium Supplements In 2024
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Calcium is an essential mineral required for proper human body functioning. It is particularly critical for the health of our bones, teeth, and muscles. Coral calcium, which is derived from fossilized coral reefs, is one form of this mineral. It is believed to be more easily absorbed by the body than other forms of calcium. Coral calcium supplements are available in various formats including capsules, tablets, and powders.
When it comes to choosing the best coral calcium supplement, there are a few critical factors to consider. Firstly, it is essential to check the purity of the supplement. Coral reefs can be contaminated with heavy metals and other toxins, so it is crucial to choose a supplement that has been tested for purity. Secondly, the amount of calcium per serving is an important factor to consider. Different supplements may have varying amounts of calcium per serving, so it is necessary to choose a supplement that provides an adequate amount of calcium for your needs.
We spent several hours researching and testing ten different coral calcium supplements to identify the best ones on the market. In the following sections, we will provide an in-depth analysis of each product, including its features, pros, and cons. By the end of this article, you will be able to make an informed decision about which coral calcium supplement is the right choice for you.
Best Coral Calcium SupplementsWe know that finding the right calcium supplement can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it's hard to know which one is the best for you. That's why we've done the research and put together a list of the best coral calcium supplements on the market. Our top picks are based on factors such as quality, effectiveness, and customer reviews. So, whether you're looking to support bone health or just want to ensure you're getting enough calcium in your diet, we've got you covered. Check out our list below to find the perfect coral calcium supplement for your needs.
1. NOW Coral Calcium SupplementIf you're looking for a natural and ecologically friendly way to support healthy bones and a healthy serum pH, NOW Coral Calcium Supplement is worth considering.
Pros
Cons
We've been using NOW Coral Calcium Supplement for a few months now and have noticed a difference in our bone health. The capsules are easy to swallow and don't have any unpleasant aftertaste. We appreciate that the coral calcium is sourced in an ecologically friendly manner and doesn't harm living coral reefs or ocean environments.
One thing to keep in mind is that natural color variation may occur in the product, which may be a concern for some users. Additionally, if you have calcium sensitivities or allergies, this supplement may not be the best choice for you. It's also worth noting that while coral calcium has been shown to be effective for supporting bone health and a healthy serum pH, it may not be as effective as other forms of calcium supplements for certain health conditions.
Overall, if you're looking for a natural and ecologically friendly way to support your bone health and serum pH, NOW Coral Calcium Supplement is worth a try.
2. Barefoot Coral Calcium CompleteWe highly recommend Barefoot Coral Calcium Complete for anyone looking for a comprehensive supplement to support overall health.
Pros
Cons
We have been using Barefoot Coral Calcium Complete for several months and have noticed a significant improvement in our overall health. The supplement is easy to take and does not cause any unpleasant side effects. We appreciate that it contains a comprehensive blend of nutrients to support overall health and that the coral calcium is sustainably harvested from the shores of Okinawa, Japan.
In addition to supporting overall health, we have also noticed an improvement in our bone health since starting to take this supplement. The 2:1 ratio of calcium to magnesium helps ensure that our bodies are able to effectively use the calcium we are consuming.
Overall, we highly recommend Barefoot Coral Calcium Complete to anyone looking for a high-quality supplement to support overall health and bone health.
3. NOW Coral Calcium PlusIf you're looking for a high-quality coral calcium supplement, NOW Coral Calcium Plus is definitely worth considering.
Pros
Cons
We've been using NOW Coral Calcium Plus for several months now and have noticed an improvement in our bone health and overall wellness. The supplement is an excellent source of alkaline calcium, which helps to support a healthy acid-base balance in the body. Additionally, the naturally occurring trace minerals in coral calcium are important for bone health and enzymatic activity.
One of the things we appreciate most about NOW Coral Calcium Plus is its ecologically friendly sourcing. The supplement is not harvested from living coral reefs or the ocean environment, but from above-ground sources. This ensures that the supplement is sustainable and does not contribute to coral reef depletion.
The supplement also includes magnesium and vitamin D, both of which are essential for bone metabolism. This makes NOW Coral Calcium Plus a well-rounded supplement for overall bone health.
While there may be some natural color variation in the product, we have not noticed any negative effects on its efficacy. Additionally, those with allergies to soy, nuts, eggs, or dairy may want to consider alternative supplements.
Overall, we highly recommend NOW Coral Calcium Plus for anyone looking to support their bone health and overall wellness.
4. Coral Cal-Mag – Bioavailable Coral Calcium with Magnesium in a 2:1 RatioIf you're looking for a calcium supplement that is bioavailable and easy for your body to absorb, then Coral Cal-Mag may be the right choice for you.
Pros
Cons
As someone who has struggled with maintaining healthy bones, I was excited to try Coral Cal-Mag. The supplement provides a 2:1 ratio of calcium to magnesium, which is optimal for bone health. Additionally, the inclusion of Vitamin D3 helps with calcium absorption, making it easier for your body to use the calcium you're taking in.
One thing to note is that the capsules are quite large, which may be difficult for some people to swallow. Additionally, some users have reported experiencing stomach upset after taking the supplement, so it's important to take it with food if you have a sensitive stomach.
Overall, I would recommend Coral Cal-Mag to anyone looking for a high-quality calcium supplement. While it may be more expensive than other options, the inclusion of over 70 trace minerals and the optimal calcium to magnesium ratio make it worth the investment.
5. Amazing Formulas Coral Calcium Complex SupplementWe highly recommend the Amazing Formulas Coral Calcium Complex Supplement for those looking for a high-quality calcium supplement.
Pros
Cons
We have been using the Amazing Formulas Coral Calcium Complex Supplement for several months and have noticed a significant improvement in our overall health. The supplement is easy to take and has not caused any adverse side effects. We appreciate that the supplement is non-GMO, gluten-free, and third-party tested, ensuring its purity and quality.
The high concentration of coral calcium per serving makes this supplement an excellent source of calcium, which is essential for maintaining healthy bones and teeth. We also appreciate that the supplement is an excellent value for the price, with 100 servings per bottle.
However, some users may find the recommended dosage of 2 capsules per serving to be inconvenient, and the supplement may not be suitable for those with seafood allergies or vegans/vegetarians. Overall, we highly recommend the Amazing Formulas Coral Calcium Complex Supplement for those looking for a high-quality calcium supplement.
6. Vitamin World Coral Calcium 1500 mg. 120 Capsules, Mineral Supplement, Rapid-Release, Gluten FreeIn our experience, we would definitely recommend the Vitamin World Coral Calcium 1500 mg. 120 Capsules. It's a great product that can help maintain bone density and strength for people of all ages, in order to support optimal bone health throughout your lifetime.
Pros
Cons
This coral calcium supplement from Vitamin World is a great way to get the highest quality calcium available. The calcium is first assayed for purity and potency by quality control specialists in state-of-the-art facilities, giving you the assurance that you are getting the best calcium supplement money can buy.
When taken as directed, this supplement delivers 1050 mg of coral calcium daily, which can help promote bone strength and maintain bone density. The coral calcium is mined, not collected, from an above-ground source, which means it's a more sustainable and environmentally friendly option.
While this supplement is generally safe for most people, some people may experience an upset stomach when taking it. Additionally, the capsules may be too large for some people to swallow. Finally, people with certain medical conditions or who are taking certain medications may not be able to take this supplement.
Overall, we think the Vitamin World Coral Calcium 1500 mg. 120 Capsules is a great option for anyone looking to maintain bone health and support optimal bone density.
Buying GuideWhen it comes to choosing the best coral calcium supplement, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your decision:
Form of SupplementCoral calcium supplements come in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and powder. Consider which form is most convenient for you to take and which one you prefer.
Calcium ContentThe amount of calcium in a supplement varies from product to product. Look for a supplement that provides at least 500mg of calcium per serving, which is the recommended daily intake for adults.
Other NutrientsSome coral calcium supplements also contain additional nutrients, such as magnesium and vitamin D, which can aid in the absorption of calcium. Check the label to see what other nutrients are included and consider whether they align with your dietary needs.
PurityIt's important to choose a coral calcium supplement that is pure and free from contaminants. Look for products that are certified by third-party organizations, such as NSF International or USP, which test for purity and quality.
PriceCoral calcium supplements can vary in price, so it's important to consider your budget when making your decision. Keep in mind that the most expensive option isn't always the best, and a lower-priced supplement may still meet your needs.
By considering these factors, you can choose a coral calcium supplement that meets your needs and supports your overall health.
Frequently Asked Questions What are the benefits of taking coral calcium supplements?Coral calcium supplements are known to provide several benefits, including supporting bone health, improving digestion, and boosting the immune system. They contain essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and trace minerals that are vital for the proper functioning of the body.
How does coral calcium compare to other forms of calcium for bone health?Coral calcium is a natural form of calcium that is easily absorbed by the body. It contains a balanced ratio of calcium and magnesium, which is essential for maintaining healthy bones. Unlike other forms of calcium, coral calcium is not associated with side effects such as constipation.
Are there any potential risks or side effects of taking coral calcium supplements?While coral calcium is generally safe for most people, it can cause side effects such as stomach upset, nausea, and vomiting. It is important to follow the recommended dosage and consult a healthcare professional before taking any supplements.
What is the recommended dosage of coral calcium supplements?The recommended dosage of coral calcium supplements varies depending on the brand and formulation. It is important to follow the instructions on the label and consult a healthcare professional before taking any supplements.
What are some reputable brands of coral calcium supplements?Some reputable brands of coral calcium supplements include Coral LLC, Okinawa Coral Calcium, and Marine Bio. It is important to choose a brand that uses high-quality coral calcium and has a good reputation in the market.
Can coral calcium supplements help with osteoporosis or other bone conditions?Coral calcium supplements may help improve bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. However, more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of coral calcium supplements in treating bone conditions. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before taking any supplements for bone health.
Two Coral Snakes Recorded Battling For Prey In A Scientific First
Two red-tailed coral snakes have been observed competing over a caecilian in the first documented wild case of kleptoparasitism within the family Elapidae.
Kleptoparasitism, or food theft, is a well-documented behaviour in many animal species but is seldom reported among snakes in natural habitats.
The observation, detailed in a recent study published in the open-access journal Herpetozoa by Henrik Bringsøe and Niels Poul Dreyer, showcases the two Micrurus mipartitus snakes engaging in a tug-of-war over the limbless amphibian.
Elapid snakes are venomous and among the deadliest serpents in the world. There are more than 400 species comprising a very diverse group of snakes such as mambas, cobras, kraits, taipans, tiger snakes, death adders, sea snakes and coral snakes.
The battle occurred in the dense rainforests of Valle del Cauca, western Colombia. Surprisingly, in the tussle, one snake also bit the body of the other. However, the researchers suggest this was likely accidental.
After 17 minutes of observation, the losing coral snake released its bite-hold on the caecilian. The winner then moved away from the losing snake which did not follow.
The study suggests that while such behaviours may be more common in captivity due to controlled environments, their occurrence in nature has been largely underreported, likely due to the elusive nature of these reptiles and the challenges of observing them in their natural habitats.
"Snakes in captivity do that often when only one prey is offered in a terrarium with two or more snakes. But it is rather surprising that it has not been observed more frequently in the wild," says lead author Henrik Bringsøe.
This case sheds light on the coral snake interactions with prey species. Caecilians, such as the one in this study, have shown remarkable adaptations such as toxin resistance and increased mucus production.
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