/oss/taxonomy/term/918/all en /oss/article/health-you-asked/why-can-you-die-just-picking-south-american-poison-dart-frog <p>There are several species of such frogs which contain such powerful toxins that just brushing against its poisonous skin is enough to kill an adult human. One hundredth of a milligram of batrachotoxin, an incredibly small amount, is lethal. The frogs are brilliantly coloured, a natural warning to predators. But it was undoubtedly their stunning appearance that first attracted South American natives who then learned through experience that handling the frogs was not a good idea. On the other hand, a touch of toxin on the tips of arrows or darts was enough to bring down large prey.</p> Tue, 05 Mar 2013 18:54:37 +0000 Joe Schwarcz PhD 1895 at /oss