EVERYDAY SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -The Gila monster is one of only small number of venomous lizards (including the Mexican beaded lizard, the Komodo dragon and some Australian species). Rather than injecting venom through hollow fangs like venomous snakes, Gilas have enlarged, grooved teeth in their lower jaw.

Detailed explanation-2: -Based upon current research results, the world’s most venomous lizard is the Gila monster Heloderma suspectum, native to the southwestern USA and northwestern Mexico. LD50 (lethal dose) values for its venom as low as 0.4 mg/kg have been recorded when administered intravenously in mice.

Detailed explanation-3: -The Gila monster and its close cousin, the beaded lizard Heloderma horridum, are the only two venomous lizards in the world.

Detailed explanation-4: -The Gila monster (Heloderma suspectum, /ˈhiːlə/ HEE-lə) is a species of venomous lizard native to the Southwestern United States and the northwestern Mexican state of Sonora.

Detailed explanation-5: -Gila monsters use their venom to ward off predators. “For example, if a coyote were to attack a Gila monster, the Gila monster would just bite. The coyote wouldn’t die, but it would just hurt enough that the coyote is never going to mess with the Gila monster again, ” Garcia said.