Mary Allen
Introduction: The Venomous vs. Non-Venomous Snakes
Snakes are fascinating creatures that can be found all over the world. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, and some are venomous while others are not. Venomous snakes use their venom to hunt and defend themselves, while non-venomous snakes rely on other means of defense. Understanding why some snakes are venomous and others are not can help us appreciate the diversity of these creatures and avoid potential dangers.
What is Venom and How Does it Work?
Venom is a specialized type of saliva that is produced by venomous snakes in glands located near their fangs. It contains a mixture of proteins, enzymes, and other molecules that can cause various effects on their prey or predator. When a venomous snake bites its victim, it injects the venom into the wound, which can cause pain, paralysis, tissue damage, or even death depending on the type of venom and the amount injected. Venom works by disrupting the normal physiological processes of the victim’s cells or tissues, such as blood clotting, muscle contraction, or nerve transmission.