Dangerous Snakes of Australia

Australia has some 130 land-dwelling snakes, and of these, 70 are venomous, though most are too small to be a danger to humans. Of the 70 that are venomous, some 25 snakes are capable of causing death. Of the 25 potentially lethal snakes, the most dangerous of these are the world’s most venomous snakes (see here).
There are some 30 different sea snakes found in Australian waters. Though no death from sea snake bites has occurred in Australian waters, it should be noted that all are venomous, though usually quite inoffensive.

Australian snakes are front-fanged. Snake venom is produced by two venom glands, one situated on each side of the snake’s head behind the eye. Venom is conveyed from the venom gland via the venom duct into the fang. When a snake bites, it is able to control the amount of venom injected by muscle contraction around the venom gland. The amount of venom injected varies considerably. Snakes periodically replace their fangs. The smaller teeth behind the fangs are used for holding and ingesting prey. It should be remembered that effective injection of venom may occur even though puncture marks may not be visible to the naked eye. Quite often a snake will bite and not inject venom, however always implement the correct first-aid procedures for actual and suspected snake bites.
Snakes are of enormous economic benefit to Australia in their control of vermin. Properties of venoms have enormous medical uses which are being constantly researched.

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