VenomFiles

Why We Should know Scientific Names

I maybe exaggerating when I say this, but it seems people call hundreds of different species of spiders “Banana Spiders,” ranging from Trichonephila to Phoneutria, and if you recognize these two genera, there is a tremendous difference. If you were bitten by a species of Phoneutria and said it was a “Banana Spider,” that would not benefit you at all, and your time is quickly running out. So, at least in this case, knowing the names may save your life.

I have also noticed that most sellers, especially of anything venomous, will use the scientific names. This can become a problem if a sellers says, “I have bitis rhinoceros, dendroaspis viridis and crotalus atrox for sale,” and you have no idea what those are. These are pretty well known and important venomous snakes to know about.

People who collect venomous animals need to know what things are, to be able to communicate very effectively about them and to know the potential risks and dangers of individual species. Knowledge of the scientific names is also an indication of the seriousness and maturity of the individual.

If you study or work with venomous animals, you already know this is important. If you are beginning in your learning about these kinds of animals, you will naturally see the importance of the scientific names with time if you do not already. It is also not hard, and it is fun to see the relationships between different animals. Start with the animals you find most interesting or that you enjoy the most; that will help you learn quickly. Here is a list of common venomous snakes that are collected, this may be an excellent place to start if venomous snakes are your interest. 

“To find yourself, think for yourself.” ― Socrates