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Question Jefferson Rodrigo Lemes Alves, Osasco, SP
illustrates Marcos de Lima
With the poison released by its bristles when touched. These little hairs act as natural protection against threats. They are resistant and strong enough to pierce human skin and inject venom (in some species, the gland that produces the toxin is at the base of the bristle, in others it is at the tip). The effect is immediate and generates a burning sensation, localized fever, inflammation and redness. One Brazilian species in particular, Lonomia obliqua, has such potent venom that it can cause widespread bruising, dark urine, and severe bleeding, which can lead to death.
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Consultancy Institute of Biosciences of Unesp São José do Rio Preto
Source Article caterpillars that burnClarissa Lima, UFRJ