Introduction: Venomous Snakes in Australia
Australia is home to some of the world’s most venomous snakes. The country has more than 100 species of snakes, and about 20 of them are venomous. These venomous snakes are found across the continent, from coastal regions to the arid inland.
The venom of these snakes can cause serious injury or death. It is, therefore, important to be aware of the venomous snakes in Australia, understand their venom potency and to take appropriate precautions when exploring the wild.
Understanding Venom Potency
Venom potency refers to the amount of toxin present in the venom of a snake and its effectiveness in causing harm. The potency of venom is determined by the combination of various factors, including the type of venom, the age and size of the snake, and the amount of venom injected.
A snake with highly potent venom may not necessarily be the most dangerous or deadly. Factors such as the frequency of contact with humans and the availability of antivenom can also determine the level of danger.
Australian Snake Venom- The Basics
Australian snake venom is mostly neurotoxic, meaning that it affects the nervous system. The venom of some of the most venomous snakes also contains hemotoxins, which can cause blood clotting or bleeding.
The venom of Australian snakes can cause a range of symptoms, ranging from mild to severe, including pain, swelling, difficulty breathing, and paralysis that can lead to death.
Measuring Venom Potency
Venom potency can be measured in different ways. One of the most common methods is the LD50 test, which measures the amount of venom required to kill 50 percent of test animals such as mice or rats.
Another method is to measure the amount of venom needed to cause a certain level of damage to human blood cells.
Venom Potency Ranking in Australia
The venom potency of Australian snakes can vary widely, and it is not always easy to compare them. However, based on LD50 tests, studies have ranked the following snakes as the most venomous in Australia:
The Inland Taipan (Oxyuranus microlepidotus)
The Inland Taipan is considered the most venomous snake in the world, with venom that is up to 50 times more potent than that of the Indian Cobra. It lives in the arid regions of central Australia and is rarely encountered by humans.
The Common Brown Snake (Pseudonaja textilis)
The Common Brown Snake is one of the most widespread venomous snakes in Australia and is found in a range of habitats. Its venom is highly potent and can cause extensive tissue damage.
The Eastern Brown Snake (Pseudonaja textilis)
The Eastern Brown Snake is also known as the Common Brown Snake and is found in eastern Australia. It is responsible for the majority of snakebite deaths in the country.
The Coastal Taipan (Oxyuranus scutellatus)
The Coastal Taipan is found in northern and eastern Australia and is known for its highly potent venom. It is considered the third most venomous snake in the world.
The Tiger Snake (Notechis scutatus)
The Tiger Snake is found in southern Australia and is known for its highly toxic venom that can cause paralysis and respiratory failure.
Conclusion: The Most Venomous Snake in Australia
While all venomous snakes in Australia are potentially dangerous, the Inland Taipan is considered the most venomous. However, it is important to note that the frequency of encounters with humans and the availability of antivenom can also determine the level of danger.
Snakebite Prevention and Treatment
Preventing snakebites is the best way to avoid injury or death. This includes wearing appropriate clothing when exploring the wild, watching where you step and keeping a safe distance from snakes.
If a snake bite occurs, seek medical attention immediately. Do not try to suck out the venom, apply a tourniquet or cut the wound. These actions can cause more harm than good. Antivenom is the most effective treatment for snakebites and should be administered as soon as possible.
