When we think of dangerous animals, lizards might not seem as though they’d be top of the list – but a few scaly species prove that reptiles can be just as lethal as big cats or venomous snakes. From venom that has been transformed into trailblazing diabetes treatment to toxins that inhibit blood clotting, lizards have some of the most […]
Tag: venom
“It’s rather splendidus, with dazzling hues of blue, orange and green…” The 8 most beautiful, stunningly exquisite fish on the planet
The ocean is home to some of the most breathtaking creatures on Earth – and few are as stunning as these vibrant fish. Whether it’s the electric hues of the mandarinfish, the regal flutter of a Siamese fighting fish’s tail, or the deadly beauty of a lionfish, these species blend form and function in striking […]
“Its venom disrupts the blood-clotting system, causing haemorrhage and kidney failure. Without prompt treatment bites can be fatal…”
This little desert hunter may not look especially imposing, but its bite can be deadly, and in India it is one of the “Big Four” snakes thought to be jointly responsible for around 58,000 mortalities per year. Those that encounter the saw-scaled viper would do well to heed the rasping warning sound it emits before […]
“Within its beautiful softly fluttering fins are a dozen spines able to deliver a dose of powerful venom.” 10 prettiest, sparkliest sea animals on the planet…
The ocean is teeming with life and animals, many of which are so captivating and colourful they look like tiny, exquisite jewels. We take a closer look at this watery world and explore some of the smaller enchanting sea creatures that call the ocean their home. Prettiest sea creatures Japanese firefly squid Few scientific […]
“Its venom disrupts the blood-clotting system, causing haemorrhage and kidney failure. Without prompt treatment bites can be fatal…”
This little desert hunter may not look especially imposing, but its bite can be deadly, and in India it is one of the “Big Four” snakes thought to be jointly responsible for around 58,000 mortalities per year. Those that encounter the saw-scaled viper would do well to heed the rasping warning sound it emits before […]
10 deadliest, most venomous spiders on the planet: Are these dangerous spiders as fearsome and lethal as their reputation?
Spiders list among some of the most feared animals on earth, but is this reputation fair? It is true that some, including all on this list, can inflict a painful bite in the right conditions, but there are many myths surrounding venomous spiders and their perceived deadliness. Firstly, it is not the case that there are a […]
Secrets of the karst: new species found in Cambodia’s limestone caves – in pictures
A survey has revealed the vast array of wildlife – some never seen before – living within the south-east Asian country’s karst ecosystems. The work was led by international wildlife conservation charity Fauna & Flora in collaboration with Cambodia’s environment ministry and field experts This article was first published by The Guardian on 23 March […]
Scorpion Venom May Provide the Next Breast Cancer Breakthrough
Scientists in Brazil are currently testing to see if the venom of an Amazonian scorpion could be used to poison breast cancer tumors. Researchers at the University of São Paulo’s Preto School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (FCFRP-USP) have long worked to clone and express proteins from rattlesnake and scorpion venom with hopes of transforming these powerful […]