What is stated as the primary purpose of the venom injected by rattlesnakes?
Answer
Subduing prey and aiding in tissue breakdown for digestion.
While rattlesnake venom is certainly used defensively when the snake is harassed, its primary biological function is related to feeding. The venom, delivered via specialized fangs which are modified salivary glands, is utilized to subdue prey animals. Furthermore, the components within the venom assist in breaking down the prey's tissues, which significantly aids the snake's digestive process once the meal is consumed.
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