Venomous parasites

Venomous parasites are organisms that live on or inside other hosts and produce venom—specialized toxins—used to subdue prey, defend themselves, or compete. Unlike venomous animals that deliver toxins through bites or stings, these parasites actively inject venom as part of their lifecycle or survival strategy. This venom can cause harm or symptoms in their hosts, aiding in their feeding or reproduction. Examples include certain parasitic worms with venomous capabilities or arthropods that inject venom while feeding, blending parasitism with venomous defense or predation.