Lemurs and the secret of using poison to relax.

(Dan Tri Newspaper) - Not only are lemurs primates known for their cute, big, round eyes, but they also possess a peculiar behavior that amazes scientists.

Using toxins from millipedes

After years of observing wild lemurs, biologists discovered a behavior that was unlike anything they had ever seen before.

Lemurs actively seek out millipedes, gently biting their bodies to force them to secrete venom, then spitting it out without eating it. Immediately afterward, they use the venom-mixed saliva to smear all over their fur.

According to research published in the Primates Journal by Professor Louise Peckre's team at the German Center for Evolutionary Biology, lemurs apply this substance to their bodies as a form of protection against ticks and fleas.

Lemurs actively seek out millipedes, gently biting their bodies to force them to release venom, then spitting it out without eating it (Photo: Getty).

Millipede secretions contain cyanogenic compounds. These are compounds that release cyanide when broken down, which have strong antibacterial and insecticidal effects.

However, the research team also noted a very high frequency of this behavior. An individual could interact with 5–6 millipedes per day, even without showing signs of serious insect attack.

This raises the question of whether lemurs seek out millipedes not just for self-defense.

Approximately 10–15 minutes after exposure to the poison, lemurs begin to show noticeable changes in their behavior.

Their eyes were dull, their ears drooped, and their reflexes slowed. Some lay flat under the trees, almost unresponsive to the slightest sound. They swayed gently, as if drifting in a dream.

The "high" lasts from 40 to 60 minutes. During this time, lemurs disconnect from their surroundings. Body movements are reduced to a minimum. Many return to seek more millipedes as the effects begin to wear off, continuing the cycle of sensation.

Researchers describe this state as "spontaneous ecstasy." While it cannot be definitively stated that lemurs actually experience pleasure in the same way humans do when using psychoactive substances, the frequency of this behavior suggests they are deliberately seeking that sensation.

According to research published in Scientific Reports , a team of experts at the University of Liverpool suggests that benzoxazinoid and cyanogenic glycoside compounds from millipedes may activate central nervous system receptors, producing effects similar to those experienced by humans when exposed to low doses of psychotropic substances.

This behavior does not cause immediate harm because lemurs possess the enzyme rhodanese in their liver, which helps neutralize some of the toxicity of cyanide.

Additionally, a 2022 study by the University of Antananarivo (Madagascar) showed that adult individuals often act as "guides" for young lemurs, teaching them how to use millipedes in the correct dosage and at the right time.

This suggests that this behavior may have an element of learning and communication within ape societies.

It's not just lemurs that know how to find fun.

Using toxins from other organisms to produce neurological effects is not unique to lemurs.

According to a comprehensive study from Trends in Ecology & Evolution , several other animal species, such as dolphins, cats, elephants, and even sparrows, also use plant or animal toxins to influence the nervous system, ranging from feelings of relaxation to temporary euphoria.

In lemurs, the use of millipedes is not random or reflexive.

Researchers noted deliberate selection. The lemurs targeted only millipedes that secreted venom, knew when to stop when the effect lasted long, and clearly distinguished between the "preparation-relaxation-recovery" phases.

Professor Louise Peckre stated in an interview with National Geographic : "We believe that lemurs use millipedes not only for protection but also to achieve a special neurological state."

This is rare behavior in the animal world , but it is extremely organized and learned.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/khoa-hoc/vuon-cao-va-bi-mat-dung-chat-doc-de-thu-gian-20250726074655688.htm