

What is Venom and Poison?
Venom is a toxin that is injected into another organism via a bite, sting, or other specialized mechanism, while poison is a toxin that causes harm when it is ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. This means that venomous animals actively deliver their toxins, whereas poisonous organisms are harmful when touched or eaten.
Difference Between Venom and Poison
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FAQs on Key Difference Between Venom and Poison
1. Is poison and venom the same thing?
No. Venom is a toxin that an animal actively injects into its target (usually via a bite or sting), while poison is harmful when touched, ingested, or inhaled.
2. Are snakes poisonous or venomous?
Snakes are venomous. They use specialized fangs to inject venom into their prey or as a defense mechanism.
3. Is poison stronger than venom?
Not exactly. They differ in how they enter the body. Potency depends on various factors such as dose, delivery method, and the specific toxin involved, so a direct strength comparison isn’t straightforward.
4. Can venom not be poisonous?
Venom and poison refer to different delivery methods rather than inherent toxicity. Venom must be injected to be harmful, whereas poison causes harm when it’s ingested or absorbed. Thus, a substance can be highly toxic but only cause harm through one specific route.
5. Which is stronger: venom or toxin?
“Toxin” is a general term that covers both venoms and poisons. Since venom is a type of toxin, their “strength” varies depending on the specific compound and context.
6. What is the most venomous animal?
The box jellyfish is often cited as one of the most venomous marine animals, while on land, the inland taipan (a snake) is known for having extremely potent venom.
7. What are the 4 poisonous snakes in India?
While snakes are venomous rather than poisonous, India’s “Big Four” venomous snakes are:
Indian Cobra
Common Krait
Russell’s Viper
Saw-scaled Viper
8. Are scorpions venomous or poisonous?
Scorpions are venomous. They sting to deliver venom rather than causing harm through ingestion or contact.
9. Which poison is the king of poison?
Arsenic has historically been dubbed the “king of poisons” due to its notorious use and extreme toxicity.
10. Which animal is immune to snake venom?
The mongoose is famously known for its resistance to snake venom. Other animals, such as certain species of hedgehogs and opossums, also exhibit a degree of resistance.

















