ABSTRACT
Venomous and poisonous animals are found in most of the animal phyla. The chapter presents an overview of the venomous and poisonous members of the animal kingdom. Approximately 45,000 species of vertebrate animals and millions of species of invertebrates live in habitats suitable for their way of life, interrelating with other animals, plants, and geologic formations. Most species of animals are utilized for food by predators. The predator/prey relationship is delicate, and one function of poisons and venoms is to dissuade attack by predators or other potential enemies. Another function is to obtain food. Representative poisonous species of animals may be found in all classes except Aves, from the simplest unicellular organisms (protozoa) to species of the higher orders of mammals. Many animal groups are strictly marine, not likely to poison terrestrial animals.
