TRUTNAU, L. Schlmigen im Terrarium, VoL 2, Giftschlangen, 200 pp. Stuttgart : Verlag Eugen Uhner (1981

TH~s book, dealing with venomous snakes in the terrarium, has been written mainly for hobbyists who express agrowing interest in keeping these dangerous animals under more or less uncontrolled conditions in captivity.Although it contains some valuable observations and suggestions, it is rather doubtful whether an uncriticalcompilation of all available venomous snakes is helpful for thosereaders startinga new hobby (especially if antiseraare not available as in many cases).A chapter on general aspects of venomous snakes (too many mistakes and misinterpretations concerning

thechemistry and pharmacology ofvenom ; the suggestions for first aid in cases ofsnake bite arenot very helpful andare written without a medical background ; the author's own experience on snake bite reflects his very limitedunderstanding conoeming the serious, not seldom deadly event ofa snake bite) is followed by a one-page chapterdealing with the terrarium where the author refers to his book on non-venomous snakes (Vol . 1) and where thismatter is also insufficieatly covered. A great number of elapid, viperid and crotalid snakes are described in the mainpart of the book : after ageneral description of morphological characteristics, the distribution, behaviour, keepingand breeding of the snake in captivity are outlined.

The book has some limited value for those dealing professionally with venomous snakes .

D . Me~s