The knowledgeable professionals at A-Tex Pest Management believe that education is the key to helping their customers understand pests and their patterns of behavior. One of the most commonly asked questions received by qualified A-Tex Pest Management specialists is: What is the difference between venomous and poisonous pests?
Is Venom & Poison the Same Thing?
Both the terms venomous and poisonous are often used as one and the same and most people do not realize that there is a distinct difference. While it is true that both a venomous and poisonous organism produces a toxin that can cause discomfort and in some cases can even be lethal, it is the way that the organism delivers the toxin that makes the term venomous and poisonous distinctly different.
Venomous Insects, Spiders & Bugs
In layman’s terms, a venomous organism injects venom into another organism by way of fangs as in the case of a spider or a stinger as in the case of a wasp. In the spider, venom is produced and stored in a gland which is then injected into the prey which the spider has captured to immobilize. Or it may bite in a defensive manner against other potential predators including humans, especially when it feels threatened or provoked.
Venomous Black Widow & Brown Recluse Spider Bites
There are two types of spiders that are found in Texas that have venom that is capable of producing illness in humans. The black widow spider has venom which is considered a neurotoxin that is capable of causing headache, shortness of breath and dizziness along with other systemic symptoms. The brown recluse spider bite is generally painless but if enough venom is injected an ulcer may develop at the site of the bite which can cause discomfort and pain. Spider bites are often misdiagnosed by medical professionals. MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) is a common cause of skin irritation that produces bite-like skin reactions. MRSA is a form of staph that is resistant to broad-spectrum antibiotics and can cause an infection of the skin which may produce painful abscesses that require surgical intervention. If you experience any type of puncture wound or break in the skin which becomes infected, seek the advice of a medical professional immediately.
Poisonous Organisms & Insects
Poisonous organisms, however, do not deliver their toxin directly but rather by way of the surface of their skin which may include either the entire body or parts of the body. This means that insects may be harmful when touched or eaten. Poisonous insects include butterflies, moths, and grasshoppers to name a few. The chemicals produced by poisonous organisms can cause symptoms including blistering and vomiting and some are even capable of producing a cardiac reaction in predators that try to eat them.
Venomous & Poisonous Insect Inspections, Control, Management, Treatment & Removal in Austin, Round Rock, Leander, Pflugerville & Cedar Park Texas
If you are interested in learning more about your pest control options contact the experts at A-Tex Pest Management and speak with a friendly and knowledgeable customer service professional to schedule your comprehensive pest control inspection and customized pest control plan.