According to a report by the Wildlife Conservation Society the global trade in snake venom is worth an estimated $812 million annually. That’s a lot of money for something that can kill you. So why is snake venom so expensive?
One reason is that it takes a lot of snakes to produce a small amount of venom. It takes about 1000 venomous bites to get just one gram of venom and a single gram can cost up to $1000.
Another reason is that extracting venom is a delicate and time-consuming process. The venom has to be carefully collected without harming the snake and it takes a lot of experience and skill to do this correctly.
Finally there is the fact that venom can be used to make life-saving antidotes. Snake venom can be used to make antivenoms which are used to treat people who have been bitten by a venomous snake. Antivenoms are very expensive to produce and they can cost up to $2500 per dose.
So there you have it. Those are some of the reasons why snake venom is so expensive.
What are some potential uses for snake venom?
Snake venom has a number of potential uses including as a painkiller an anticoagulant and a treatment for certain types of cancer.
How is snake venom produced?
Snake venom is produced in the glands of the snake and then stored in the fangs.
How does a snake deliver its venom?
A snake can deliver its venom in a number of ways including through a bite a lick or by spitting.
What are the symptoms of a snake bite?
Symptoms of a snake bite can include pain swelling and redness at the site of the bite as well as nausea vomiting and dizziness.
What are the consequences of a snake bite?
The consequences of a snake bite can be serious and may include tissue damage organ failure and even death.
How can I tell if a snake is venomous?
There are a number of ways to tell if a snake is venomous including looking at the shape of its head and the presence of fangs.
How can I avoid being bitten by a snake?
Some ways to avoid being bitten by a snake include being aware of your surroundings avoiding tall grass and bushes and wearing protective clothing.
What should I do if I am bitten by a snake?
If you are bitten by a snake it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
How much venom does a snake have?
The amount of venom a snake has can vary depending on the species of snake.
How long does it take for a snake to produce more venom?
It takes a snake about two weeks to produce more venom.
What is the value of snake venom?
The value of snake venom can vary depending on the type of venom and the quantity.
How is snake venom collected?
Snake venom can be collected in a number of ways including by milking the snake or by collecting the venom after the snake has been killed.
How is snake venom used?
Snake venom can be used for a number of purposes including research medical treatment and the production of antivenom.
What are the risks associated with collecting snake venom?
The risks associated with collecting snake venom include being bitten by the snake and being exposed to the venom.
Why is snake venom so expensive?
The reasons for the high cost of snake venom include the danger involved in collecting it and the fact that it takes a long time for a snake to produce more venom.
