In the study, researchers modeled the geographic distribution of 209 venomous snake species known to be life-threatening to humans to understand where different species might find favorable climate conditions by 2070.
Most venomous snakes will be less widespread by 2070 due to the loss of tropical and subtropical ecosystems. However, for some species, such as the Gaboon viper, their natural habitat increases by up to 250 percent
According to a study published this March by the Lancet Planetary Health journal, people in middle- and low-income countries in South and Southeast Asia, as well as parts of Africa, will be most at risk.
Most venomous snakes will be less widespread by 2070 due to the loss of tropical and subtropical ecosystems. For some species, such as the Gaboon viper, however, according to the study, their natural habitat will increase by up to 250 percent.
Vipers have proliferated in Croatia. They have four bites in Split
Europe
Scientists also predict that the range of spotted and horned vipers will more than double by 2070.
“As more and more land is converted to agricultural and livestock land, the natural habitats that snakes depend on are being destroyed and fragmented,” the study authors said.
But some species are able to adapt to this, because the fields represent a new source of food for them, for example rodents.
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Science and schools
“Our research shows that when venomous snakes start appearing in new places, it’s a warning sign to start thinking about how we can protect ourselves and our environment,” added the study authors.
WHO: Venomous snakes cause up to 138,000 deaths each year
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 1.8 to 2.7 million people are bitten by venomous snakes each year, causing up to 138,000 deaths and at least 400,000 amputations and permanent disabilities.
In 2017, WHO listed snakebite among the highest priority neglected tropical diseases.
“We now finally know better how snakes will change their distribution in response to climate change, but there is also a serious concern that more people will be bitten if high temperatures, heavy rains and flooding become more frequent, displacing both snakes and people,” she said, according to The Guardian Anna Pintorová, scientist at the WHO Neglected Tropical Diseases Group.
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World
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Science and schools
