March 16, 2024
This ant, native to the rainforests of Central and South America, holds the dubious honor of having the most painful insect sting in the world. Their venom, a neurotoxin called poneratoxin, mimics the effects of being shot - hence the name. The pain is excruciating and can last for hours.
These tiny terrors, native to South America but now invasive in many parts of the world, have a painful sting that causes burning, itching, and pustules. Their venom, solenopsin, also triggers allergic reactions in some people.
These aptly named insects are ambush predators that inject their prey with a lethal cocktail of enzymes that liquefies their insides. Their venom can also be harmful to humans, causing pain, swelling, and even death in rare cases.
Also known as cone nosed bugs, these blood-sucking insects can transmit a potentially fatal parasite called Trypanosoma cruzi, which causes Chagas disease.
While not technically an insect, this tiny spider packs a powerful neurotoxin that can cause severe pain, muscle cramps, nausea, and even death if left untreated.
Another tiny spider with a nasty bite, the brown recluse's venom causes tissue necrosis, where the skin and underlying tissues are literally destroyed.
These nocturnal scorpions are found in the southwestern United States and Mexico. Their venom is a neurotoxin that can cause pain, swelling, and even respiratory failure in severe cases.