venom gland evolution

Venom glands evolved as specialized structures in some animals to produce and deliver toxins for hunting or defense. Over time, various species, like snakes, spiders, and some lizards, developed these glands independently, driven by selective pressures to improve survival. These glands typically evolved from normal salivary or tissue structures, becoming more complex and efficient at producing potent venom. The evolution of venom glands illustrates how different animals can develop similar solutions through convergent evolution, adapting existing tissues for new functions that enhance their ability to capture prey or deter predators.