Ant venom

Ant Venom

Ant venom (pronunciation: /ænt vɛnəm/) is a type of venom produced by certain species of ants. The venom is used primarily for defense against predators and for subduing prey.

Etymology

The term "ant venom" is derived from the Old English "æt", meaning "ant", and the Latin "venenum", meaning "poison".

Composition

Ant venom is a complex mixture of proteins, peptides, and other molecules. The exact composition varies between different species of ants, but it often includes formic acid, alkaloids, and proteins. Some species of ants also produce venom that contains neurotoxins, which can affect the nervous system of their victims.

Effects

The effects of ant venom can range from mild irritation to severe allergic reactions. In humans, the venom can cause pain, swelling, and redness at the site of the sting. In some cases, it can also cause systemic reactions, such as difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, and anaphylaxis.

Related Terms

• Ant
• Venom
• Formic acid
• Alkaloids
• Proteins
• Neurotoxins
• Anaphylaxis

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Ant venom
• Wikipedia's article - Ant venom

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