Bhubaneswar, Dec 18: The terms "poisonous" and "venomous" are often used interchangeably, but they refer to distinct concepts related to the harmful effects of certain organisms on other living beings.
Poisonous:
A creature or substance is considered poisonous if it is harmful when ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. Poisonous organisms usually carry toxins that can cause harm if they come into contact with or are consumed by another organism. Examples of poisonous organisms include certain plants, fungi, and animals. Poisonous substances can be dangerous when touched, eaten, or inhaled, but they are not actively delivered by the organism.
Example: The pufferfish, also known as fugu in Japanese cuisine, is a poisonous fish. Its internal organs, particularly the liver and ovaries, contain a potent neurotoxin called tetrodotoxin. Ingesting improperly prepared pufferfish can lead to paralysis and, in severe cases, death.
Venomous:
In contrast, an organism is considered venomous if it delivers toxins actively, typically through specialized structures such as fangs, stingers, or spines. Venom is injected into the victim, and the delivery mechanism can vary among different organisms. Venomous creatures are often equipped with structures specifically evolved for injecting toxins into their prey or attackers. Examples of venomous organisms include snakes, spiders, scorpions, and some species of fish.
Example: Snakes are often venomous. For instance, the inland taipan, also known as the "fierce snake," has venom that is extremely potent. When it bites its prey or defends itself, it injects venom through its fangs. The venom contains neurotoxins that can quickly incapacitate or kill the victim.
The key distinction lies in the mode of toxin delivery:
Poisonous: Harmful when touched, consumed, or inhaled.
Venomous: Delivers toxins actively through specialized structures.
It's essential to use these terms accurately to communicate the specific nature of the threat posed by different organisms, as misusing them may lead to confusion about the actual risks involved.
