Lonomia

Lonomia is a genus of moths in the family Saturniidae. They are commonly known as Giant Silkworm Moths. The genus was first described by Francis Walker in 1855. The most notorious species in the genus is Lonomia obliqua, which is known for its venomous spines leading to human deaths.

Description

The Lonomia caterpillars are typically green and can reach a length of up to 7 cm. They are covered in bristles that contain a potent anticoagulant venom. When touched, these bristles break off and release the venom into the skin.

Distribution

The Lonomia genus is found in the tropical rainforests of South America, particularly in Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, and Uruguay.

Venom

The venom of Lonomia obliqua is especially dangerous due to its anticoagulant properties. It can cause a condition known as Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC), which can lead to internal bleeding, kidney failure, and death.

Treatment

Treatment for Lonomia envenomation involves the administration of an antivenom, which is produced by the Butantan Institute in São Paulo, Brazil. The antivenom is made by injecting horses with a non-lethal dose of the venom, then collecting the antibodies produced.

See also

• List of moths
• Saturniidae
• Venomous caterpillar

References

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