Quote:
Originally Posted by RandyRhoads
The same study is saying iguanas are venomous too? What would be the purpose of that.....
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The study says that venom in reptiles developed a long time ago in a common ancestor. Iguanas and many other descendants may no longer possess this venom. It is costly to produce venom, so if it is not of benefit to the animal, the adaptation will vanish or go vestigial.
That said, venom could very easily serve a purpose in iguanas. Venom is not only for hunting and defense.. Venom can also be a digestive aid, or even help maintain oral hygiene. It's a mix of proteins that does something, and that something can be almost anything.
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