Black mamba venom's neurotoxins cause rapid paralysis

Black mamba venom can be fatal within an hour due to neurotoxins that paralyze the nervous system. The snake's venom targets the nervous system, blocking cell communication and leading to paralysis, including respiratory muscles. Modern antivenom significantly improves survival rates. Despite its fearsome reputation, the black mamba is not an aggressive pursuer of humans and its name comes from its dark mouth, not its scales.