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Unusual virus may tie snakes in knots

Newly discovered class could be the cause of fatal disease

By Tina Hesman Saey

- More than 2 years ago

A newly discovered class of virus may be at fault in a disease that causes snakes to regurgitate their food, stop eating, and even twist themselves into knots.

Researchers deciphered the complete genetic makeup of a healthy boa constrictor named Balthazar (pictured) and used the information to identify the virus that may cause a deadly snake disease.