Proteomic analysis of ontogenetic and diet-related changes in venom composition of juvenile and adult Dusky Pigmy rattlesnakes (Sistrurus miliarius barbouri)

► Ontogenetic and diet-related effects on venom of captive rattlesnakes was assessed by a controlled feeding experiment. ► Juvenile snakes fed from birth with mice, lizards, or frogs showed fine-scale venom composition changes. ► Diet had little effect of diet on the overall make-up of venom in snakes 26 months old or younger. ► Adults raised on different prey over 26 month showed prey-related changes in their venom from initial to final samples. ► Venom composition is plastic in juvenile and adult S. m. barbouri, and prey consumed influenced adult venom composition.