They originated in Africa. The size of a rabbit and its fur are strong enough to poison a human



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According to a new study published in the journal Mammalogy, rabbit-sized mice with enough venom to kill an elephant have emerged in East Africa. These mice were not reported to be hostile, although they contained poison potent enough to instantly kill even a few milligrams of a human.

According to the news in CHIPThe African crested rat (Lophiomys imhausi), which emerged in Africa, amazes those who see it. These mice are also known as the only mammal known to collect plant venom as a means of chemical defense. Its fur contains a poison, of which a few milligrams is strong enough to kill a person instantly.

TURNS INTO A TOXIC WEAPON

Although the article is still new, people living in East Africa have long suspected that mice are “armed” and dangerous. In 2011, the first study on the unusual properties of crested rats suggested that they collected toxins from the poison arrow tree (Acokanthera schimperi), which was used for hunting by humans because it is rich in highly toxic cardenolides. When threatened, these rats were thought to sting and lick the feathers on their backs, turning them into a poisonous weapon. This first research confirmed the behavior in one individual, but how common the behavior was among crested rats remained unclear.

25 mice examined

In the study, 25 mice were examined and their behavior was observed for 1,000 hours. At the end of these observations, the scientists revealed that the mice collected the Acokanthera toxin and had a very complex social life.

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