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Deadly Creatures
NATURE's AUSTRALIA'S LITTLE ASSASSINS provides tantalizing portraits of the continent's dangerous animals. Below, we answer some general questions about this fascinating world.
What is the difference between poison and venom?
Venom is actively injected, while poison must be eaten or absorbed. So snakes and spiders have venom, because they typically use fangs to inject it into their victims. Some frogs, however, have poison, because one must touch their skin to absorb it.
How many kinds of venomous spiders are there?
No one knows for sure, because there are at least 35,000 kinds of spiders. So far, however, less than 100 are known to be a threat to people, although many others can easily poison their prey.
How about snakes?
There are about 3,000 species of snakes, and less than 400 are believed to be venomous. Some, such as the cobra, can actually spit their poison -- meaning they don't have to bite you to be deadly!
And fish?
While the actual number of poisonous fish is unknown, about 300 are known to have poison-tipped spines.
Some animals advertise their toxicity.
Is there a "most poisonous animal"?
Not necessarily. The toxicity of some snake venoms, for instance, changes as the snake ages, or depends on what it has been eating. Similarly, the deadliness of snake and spider venom can vary from place to place in the same species. In general, however, the bite or sting of the deadliest animals can cause an adult human being to die within 15 minutes, usually by destroying the brain's ability to send the signals that allow us to breathe. Paralyzed, we suffocate.
Why are so many poisonous animals so brightly colored?
Evolutionary biologists aren't certain, but often the colors may provide a warning to potential predators. By advertising their toxicity, an animal may avoid attack. Similarly, plants may avoid being eaten. But other poisonous animals blend into their environments, perhaps because they use their poisons to attack and disable prey. In that case, there is no point in advertising just how dangerous you are!
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A Lethal Land
The home of many venomous creatures.
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Venom Rx
Researchers are seeking cures in venom.
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Deadly Creatures
The facts about these dangerous animals.
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Quiz
Take our quiz on Australia's creatures. |
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Resources
Links and books related to the program.
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