Venoms are toxic substances produced by certain animals, such as snakes, spiders, and some marine creatures, to immobilize or kill their prey. These biological toxins can vary widely in composition and effects, often containing proteins, enzymes, and other molecules that disrupt normal biological functions in other organisms.
When injected into a victim, venoms can cause a range of symptoms, from pain and swelling to paralysis or even death. The study of venoms is important in fields like medicine and pharmacology, as researchers explore potential treatments and antivenoms, which are used to counteract the effects of venom from creatures like cobras and black widows.