What primary action defines the venom characteristic of the sand viper?
Answer
Cytotoxic
The venom produced by the sand viper is primarily characterized as cytotoxic. This classification means that the venom targets and attacks body tissues upon injection. The consequences of a bite are localized but severe, typically involving intense pain, significant swelling at the wound site, and the potential development of tissue death, or necrosis. Understanding the cytotoxic nature of the venom is crucial because it dictates the immediate required medical response, focusing on managing tissue damage, swelling, and pain, as opposed to venoms that primarily attack the nervous system or the circulatory system.

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