Instituto Clodomiro Picado
The Instituto Clodomiro Picado is a leading research center in Costa Rica dedicated to the study of snakes and their venoms, and the production of antivenom. As a research unit of the Universidad de Costa Rica, it plays a crucial role in public health by supplying life-saving serums across Central America and beyond, while also engaging in vital educational outreach.
Key Facts
- ›Established in 1970.
- ›A research unit of the Universidad de Costa Rica.
- ›Specializes in the production of snake antiophidic serums.
- ›Conducts scientific research on serpents and their venoms.
- ›Provides educational and extension programs.
- ›Supplies antivenoms to Central America, Ecuador, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, and Papua New Guinea.
About Instituto Clodomiro Picado
The Instituto Clodomiro Picado is a significant research and production center situated in Vázquez de Coronado, San José Province, Costa Rica. Established in 1970, it operates as a dedicated research unit under the auspices of the Universidad de Costa Rica. The institute's primary mandate revolves around the critical production of snake antiophidic serums, essential for treating venomous snakebites. Alongside this vital function, it undertakes extensive scientific research focused on serpents and the complex nature of their venoms.
Beyond its research and production capabilities, the Instituto Clodomiro Picado is committed to educational outreach. It conducts programs aimed at both rural communities and healthcare professionals in hospitals, fostering a greater understanding of herpetology and the importance of antivenom. The institute's contributions extend internationally, as it produces and supplies antivenoms for human and veterinary applications to regions including Central America, Ecuador, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, and Papua New Guinea. The institution bears the name of the distinguished Costa Rican scientist Clodomiro Picado Twight, honoring his legacy in scientific endeavors.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Instituto Clodomiro Picado?
The Instituto Clodomiro Picado is a research center located in Vázquez de Coronado, San José Province, Costa Rica. It is a research unit of the Universidad de Costa Rica.
What is the primary function of the Instituto Clodomiro Picado?
Its main responsibilities include the production of snake antiophidic serums (antivenoms) for human and veterinary use, as well as conducting scientific research on serpents and their venoms.
Who is the Instituto Clodomiro Picado named after?
The institute was named in honor of the Costa Rican scientist Clodomiro Picado Twight.
What regions does the Instituto Clodomiro Picado supply antivenoms to?
The institute produces antivenoms for use in Central America, Ecuador, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, and Papua New Guinea.
Does the institute engage in educational activities?
Yes, it is involved in educational and extension programs, particularly in rural areas and hospitals, to disseminate knowledge about snakes and antivenom.
Related Zoos
Centro de Conservación de Santa Ana
The Centro de Conservación de Santa Ana (CCSA) was a wilderness area and zoo in Costa Rica, spanning approximately 130 acres and featuring remnants of dry tropical forest. Administered by Fundación Pro Zoológicos (Fundazoo) since 1994, it served as a center for conservation, education, and recreation until its official closure in May 2024.
Arenal Eco Zoo
The Arenal Eco Zoo is a nature center situated in western Alajuela Province, Costa Rica, near Lake Arenal and the border of Guanacaste Province. It is distinguished by its extensive collection of reptiles, amphibians, arachnids, and insects, alongside educational exhibits and guided tours into the surrounding jungle to observe local wildlife.
Las Pumas Cat Zoo
Centro de Rescate Las Pumas, also known as Las Pumas Cat Rescue Center, is a rural park and wildlife rescue center located in southern Cañas, Costa Rica. It plays a crucial role in rehabilitating animals rescued from human interaction, with the goal of reintroducing many species back into the wild.