Comparative Metabolism of, and Sensitivity to, Fluoroacetate in Geographically Separated Populations of Tiliqua-Rugosa (Gray) (Scincidae)

Abstract

Populations of Tiliqua rugosa which coexist with fluoroacetate-bearing vegetation were much less sensitive to fluoroacetate intoxification than were conspecifics not exposed to the toxic plants. However, the biochemical mechanisms responsible for this toxicity differential were not ascertained. Liver acetone powder preparations from both conspecifics were similar in their abilities to detoxify fluoroacetate by defluorination, and to convert fluoroacetate into fluorocitrate. The aconitate hydratase in these preparations was also similarly inhibited by (-)erythro-fluorocitrate. These findings, and other possibilities which could be responsible for the toxicity differential, are discussed.