Gone in 60 milliseconds: dramatic slow-motion snake bites reveal clues about how fangs and venom kill prey

Researchers have studied 36 species of venomous snakes to understand their biting behavior. The study, published in the Journal of Experimental Biology, used slow-motion footage to capture the differences in how venomous serpents bite their targets. Vipers struck within 100 milliseconds, unfolding their fangs before injecting venom, while elapids, such as cobras and mambas, tended to sneak up and bite repeatedly. Colubrids, including mangrove snakes, used their rear fangs to slice prey. The study's findings provide insights into how different snake species strike and can inform conservation efforts. By understanding a snake's diet and hunting methods, researchers can develop effective protection schemes, which is essential for the conservation of these species.

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