Facts about Slow Loris Venom
- 06
Among primates, slow loris venom is unique in being delivered not through fangs or spines but by licking the brachial gland and then biting.
- 05
Active compounds in slow loris venom include proteins structurally similar to the Fel d 1 allergen found in cat dander.
- 04
Researchers believe slow loris venom evolved primarily as a defense against predators rather than for use in competition between individuals.
- 03
Brachial gland exudate, the oily secretion licked by slow lorises to create venom, is produced from a gland on the upper arm unique among primates.
- 02
Slow loris venom causes painful swelling and can trigger anaphylactic shock in humans, making it medically significant among primate bites.
- 01
The slow loris is the only known venomous primate, producing venom by mixing brachial gland secretions with saliva.