How The Solenodon Became Venomous

The video explores the concept of venom in animals, focusing on the solenodon, a rare venomous mammal. It explains the difference between venom and poison, and delves into the composition of solenodon venom, which primarily consists of calico creans enzymes. The video also discusses the independent evolution of venom in solenodons and shrews, highlighting how natural selection acted on existing variations to develop similar venoms in these mammals over millions of years.

Which of the following animals is NOT typically venomous?

• Snakes

• Spiders

• Jellyfish

• Elephants

Where are solenodons primarily found?

• Caribbean islands

• Australia

• Africa

• South America

What is the main difference between venom and poison?

• Venom is absorbed, poison is injected

• Venom is always lethal, poison is not

• Venom is found in plants, poison in animals

• Venom is injected, poison is absorbed

How do solenodons deliver their venom?

• Through their claws

• Through their lower incisor teeth

• Through their upper fangs

• Through their tail

What effect does solenodon venom have on its prey?

• Causes hallucinations

• Causes immediate paralysis

• Lowers blood pressure

• Induces severe pain

How did solenodons and shrews develop similar venom?

• Through interbreeding

• Through a shared common ancestor

• By genetic engineering

• By convergent evolution

What role does natural selection play in the evolution of venom?

• It selects for variations that improve prey capture

• It ensures all animals have venom

• It creates new genes for venom

• It eliminates all venomous species