Inland Taipan: Really The Deadliest, or Media Hype?

  • Thread starter Shalashaska
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In summary, there are varying perspectives on the most dangerous and deadliest snakes in the world, with some lists based on venom toxicity and others on deaths caused by snake bites. However, it is important to take into account the availability and effectiveness of anti-venoms when considering the true danger of a snake. Inland Taipan snakes, found in Australia, have the most toxic venom but are not aggressive unless provoked. In case of a bite, anti-venom is readily available and effective in treating the venom.
  • #1
Shalashaska
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Well, the title says it all. I'm given to understand that Taipan snakes are fast, loaded with hemotoxins AND neurotoxins, and FAST. There is SO much information out there, and I don't trust Discovery as far as I can throw it.

I'm guessing we have some Aussie scientists here, and I would love to hear about these seemingly nasty reptiles, without resorting to (sometimes misleading) bite statistics, and in the context of a continent where even the PLATYPUS is venomous!
 
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  • #2
Top 10" deadliest snake lists are very subjective. People often create lists based on the toxicity of snake venoms but generally do not to take into account the clinical ability to treat, or inability to treat, bites. Many of the world's most venomous snakes have venoms that are very straightforward and 'easy' to treat effectively with the proper anti venoms; Mamba bites are this way. However, other species that might fall far below the so-called 'Top 10' cause a clinical explosion of problems for which anti venoms are not very effective. Some rattlesnake bites are like this. There are still other people who derive their deadly snake lists from deaths in the countries they live in, study in, or that they are just fond of. All these points of view make for tremendous confusion in Top 10 lists. We feel it is far more interesting and important to list the most dangerous and deadly snakes in the world by region.
http://www.reptilegardens.com/learning-pages/snakes/deadliest-snakes/

Other perspectives:

http://www.uoregon.edu/~ddardano/snake/topfivedeadliestsnake.htm

http://crikeymatemosaic.wordpress.com/2006/10/17/the-deadliest-snakes-in-the-world/


If one travels to areas where such snakes are found, one should take proper precautions to avoid interactions, and one should have ready access to anti-venoms.
 
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  • #3
Astronuc said:
http://www.reptilegardens.com/learning-pages/snakes/deadliest-snakes/

Other perspectives:

http://www.uoregon.edu/~ddardano/snake/topfivedeadliestsnake.htm

http://crikeymatemosaic.wordpress.com/2006/10/17/the-deadliest-snakes-in-the-world/


If one travels to areas where such snakes are found, one should take proper precautions to avoid interactions, and one should have ready access to anti-venoms.

*gulp* I see... :eek:
 
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  • #4
I'm pretty sure the Inland Taipan snake has the most toxic venom out of all the venomous land snakes. It's not aggressive though unless you really and I mean REALLY piss it off.

In an average bite it releases about 1470* the amount of the LD50. If you did end up getting bitten by one of these snakes though just go get some anti-venom it's treatable.
 
  • #5
So, there's some hysteria in that it's not the type to chase you like Black Mamba, but if it DOES bite you, get help fast. Wow, Australia doesn't skimp on the venom does it? 1470?!? I guess they really don't like it when mice escape. :bugeye:
 

1. Is the Inland Taipan really the deadliest snake in the world?

Yes, the Inland Taipan (Oxyuranus microlepidotus) is considered to be the deadliest snake in the world based on its venom potency and the amount of venom it can deliver in a single bite.

2. How dangerous is the Inland Taipan's venom to humans?

The Inland Taipan's venom is extremely potent and can cause severe symptoms in humans, including paralysis, respiratory failure, and even death. However, with proper medical treatment, fatalities are rare.

3. Is the media exaggerating the danger posed by the Inland Taipan?

While the Inland Taipan's reputation as the deadliest snake in the world is well-deserved, the media may sometimes exaggerate its danger for sensationalism. It is important to remember that snake bites, including those from the Inland Taipan, are relatively rare and can often be prevented with proper precautions.

4. Are there any other snakes that are as deadly as the Inland Taipan?

There are several other snakes that are also considered to be highly venomous and dangerous to humans, such as the Eastern Brown Snake and the Black Mamba. However, the Inland Taipan has the most potent venom and can deliver the largest amount of venom in a single bite.

5. Can the venom of the Inland Taipan be used for medical purposes?

Yes, the venom of the Inland Taipan has been studied for its potential medical uses, such as in the development of treatments for high blood pressure and blood clotting disorders. However, due to the rarity and protected status of the Inland Taipan, obtaining its venom for research purposes can be difficult.

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