Venom is a secretion containing 1 or more toxins produced by an animal. Venom has evolved in a wide variety of animals, both predators and prey, and both vertebrates and invertebrates.
Venoms kill through the action of at least 4 major classes of toxin, namely necrotoxins and cytotoxins, which kill cells; neurotoxins, which affect nervous systems; and myotoxins, which damage muscles. Biologically, venom is distinguished from poison in that poisons are ingested, while venom is delivered in a bite, sting, or similar action. Venomous animals cause tens of thousands of human deaths per year. However, the toxins in many venoms have potential to treat a wide range of diseases.
This category is for animals that are venomous in at least one stage of their life.
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Colossal Squid -
Platypus -
Giant Squid -
Green Iguana -
Vampire Bat -
Gila Monster -
European Mole -
Western Honey Bee
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