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About Daniel Moellic
Expertise
I can answer a variety of questions on interspecies conflict including hypothetical questions. I can go into detail if necessary. I would also like to mention that I prefer questions on reptiles vs mammals or reptiles in general however my best topic is theropod dinosaurs. I have a good understanding of the physiology of most species but cannot answer questions on things such as bite force as statistics on these vary a lot.

Experience
I have studied animals both living and extinct since I was a child and was particularly fascinated by theropods and big cats. I am famous at college for knowing everything about various animals and how they behave.

Education/Credentials
I have an A* in biology (GCSE level)

You are here: Experts > Science > Animals/Wildlife > Interspecies Conflict > the Komodo's bite

Interspecies Conflict - the Komodo's bite

Expert: Daniel Moellic - 11/5/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hello, Daniel--

I know about the deadly bacteria in the Komodo Dragon's bite and I know it can kill water buffalo after a few days or so, but what affect would a Komodo's bite have on an elephant?

thank you---Brad

ANSWER: Hello again Brad

The first problem would be if a Komodo Dragon could bite through an elephant's skin as it has small teeth and a fairly low bite force. However if it did manage to cause an injury the wound would kill the elephant but more slowly as the elephant is still susceptable to the bacteria but it's larger size would allow it to carry on going longer.

Thanks for asking

Feel free to ask again

Daniel

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hello again---

What if a Komodo Dragon bit a Blue Whale and caused a wound ample enough to allow its bacteria to enter the body of the whale...would it kill the Blue Whale eventually?

thanks!

Answer
Hello again Brad

With whales being aquatic it is possible the infection would be washed out of the wound before it spread to deeply into the whale's blood stream. However if it didn't the bacteria would eventually, after several weeks or even months, kill the whale.

Thanks for asking

Feel free to ask again

Daniel

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