What is Snake Venom? Type of snake Venom?
Snake venom is a highly specialized, toxic secretion produced by certain species of snakes. It is primarily used for hunting prey and self-defense. Snake venom is composed of a complex mixture of proteins, enzymes, and other molecules that can have various harmful effects on the body, depending on the type of venom. These effects range from paralyzing muscles to destroying tissues or disrupting blood clotting.
| Type of Venom | Description | Effects on the Body | Examples of Snakes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Neurotoxic Venom | Affects the nervous system by blocking nerve signals to muscles, leading to paralysis. | – Causes muscle weakness, respiratory failure, and paralysis. – May lead to death if untreated, due to respiratory failure. | – Cobras – Coral snakes – Sea snakes – Mambas |
| Hemotoxic Venom | Targets the circulatory system, causing blood clotting disorders and tissue damage. | – Leads to internal bleeding, tissue destruction, and organ damage. – Can cause severe pain and swelling. | – Vipers (e.g., Russell’s viper) – Rattlesnakes – Copperheads |
| Cytotoxic Venom | Destroys cells and tissues, leading to localized tissue damage and necrosis. | – Causes severe pain, swelling, and blisters around the bite area. – May result in gangrene or loss of limb. | – Puff adders – Spitting cobras |
| Myotoxic Venom | Damages muscle tissues, leading to muscle breakdown and potential kidney failure. | – Causes muscle pain, weakness, and breakdown of muscle tissue (rhabdomyolysis). – Can lead to kidney damage or failure. | – Sea snakes – Some rattlesnakes |
| Cardiotoxic Venom | Affects the heart muscles, potentially leading to cardiac arrest or heart failure. | – Causes chest pain, irregular heartbeats, and can lead to heart failure. | – King cobras – Some vipers |
| Proteolytic Venom | Breaks down proteins, causing extensive tissue damage and facilitating the spread of other venom components. | – Leads to severe tissue destruction and spreading of venom through the body. | – Many vipers and pit vipers |
This table summarizes the types of venom and their respective effects on the body, along with examples of snakes that carry these venoms.
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