Several factors influence the strength, or potency, of a rattlesnakes venom.
Rattlesnakes are venomous snakes. They use sharp, hollow fangs to deliver poison and immobilize their prey. Venom potency depends on factors such as the species of snake and the composition of the venom. A rattlesnake's age can also influence the venom's strength.
Venom Composition
Venom contains a complex mixture of substances called enzymes. According to the Hoosier Herpetological Society, scientists have identified approximately 20 types of toxic enzymes in snake venom. Although no one venom possesses them all, most snake venom contains 6 to 12 of them.
Mode of Action
The potency of rattlesnake venom relies heavily upon its mode of action. Hemotoxic venom affects the circulatory system and breaks down muscle tissue. Neurotoxic venom attacks the nervous system resulting in heart failure or respiratory distress and represents the more noxious of the venom types. Most rattlesnakes have hemotoxic venom, although some, like the Mojave rattlesnake, have neurotoxic venom.
Age and Potency
According to an article published by the North Carolina State Cooperative Extension, young snakes produce more potent venom than more mature rattlesnakes. Young snakes may also have venom containing more neurotoxins than their elders. For unknown reasons, venom strength can vary between rattlesnakes of the same species and age.
Tags: snake venom, venom strength