Subscribe now

Life

Bacteria have even evolved to live in the venom glands of snakes

By Michael Marshall

28 June 2018

New Scientist. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

Bacteria can even live in snake venom

Mark Kostich/Getty

Some bacteria have evolved to live in one of the most hostile environments imaginable: inside the venom glands of snakes, spiders and scorpions. As well as highlighting how adaptable microorganisms are, the finding also suggests that antibiotics should be used more to help treat snakebites.

People who have been bitten by snakes often suffer infections, but this was thought to be an incidental consequence of having an open wound that has been inside the snake’s mouth. The venom itself is highly toxic so was assumed to be sterile.

However, Steven…

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox. We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

Popular articles

Trending New Scientist articles

Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop