Toxicity is a good defense, until it isn't
Summary
The article discusses how some animals, like cane toads, use toxins as a defense mechanism to protect themselves from predators. Evolutionary biologist Shabnam Mohammadi talks about how certain animals have adapted to these toxins, allowing them to eat toxic prey without harm. The piece also touches on the human use of similar toxins for medical purposes.Key Facts
- Some animals have natural toxins that protect them from predators.
- Cane toads in South America use a toxin called cardiotonic steroids.
- These toxins can cause heart attacks in animals that try to eat the toads.
- Some predators have evolved to eat these toxic animals without getting sick.
- Evolutionary biologist Shabnam Mohammadi studies how these adaptations happen.
- Humans have used toxins like cardiotonic steroids for medical treatments since ancient times.
- Currently, some versions of these steroids are used to treat heart failure in humans.
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