Argentina snake invasion forces beach closures

An invasion of poisonous snakes washed downriver in recent floods forced authorities to close beaches to summer holidaymakers in northern Argentina, officials said Monday.

Creating life-saving drugs from deadly venom

When faced with a scorpion, poisonous snake, jellyfish or tarantula, most people would beat a hasty retreat. For a team of scientists investigating the therapeutic potential of their venom, these are however very treasured ...

Demand for exotic pets pushes species to the brink

Poisonous frogs, long-necked turtles, bears and chimpanzees may not be everyone's idea of an animal companion, but experts warn that demand for exotic pets is pushing some species closer to extinction.

Opera's poisons and potions connect students with chemistry

Opera audiences can feel the chemistry in romance-inspired classics like Mimi's aria from La Bohème, Cavaradossi's remembrance of his beloved while awaiting execution in Tosca and that young lady pining for her man with ...

Biting back: Costa Rica experts harvest deadly snake venom

The dreaded Matabuey, a snake so fearsome its name means "ox killer," has a deadly bite that immobilizes its prey in minutes, making it the kind of creature generally to be avoided. But far from steering clear of the legless ...

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