Australian stinging trees contain ‘scorpion-like venom’: scientists – RFI

Brisbane (Australia) (AFP)
Australia is notorious for its venomous spiders, snakes and sea creatures, but researchers have now identified “scorpion-like” toxins secreted by a tree that can cause excruciating pain for weeks.
Split-second contact with the dendrocnide tree, a rainforest nettle known by its indigenous name gympie-gympie, delivers a sting far more potent than similar plants found in the US or Europe.
The tree, which has broad oval- or heart-shaped leaves, is primarily found in rai…

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