What venomous shrew species has the scientific name Neomys fodiens?

The venomous shrew species with the scientific name Neomys fodiens is the Eurasian water shrew.

Neomys fodiens is a semi-aquatic shrew found across much of northern Europe and Asia. In Britain it is often simply called the water shrew. It lives beside streams, ponds, ditches and other wetlands, where it hunts aquatic insects, crustaceans, snails, amphibians and small fish.

Its venom is delivered through grooves in the lower incisors. Submaxillary glands produce neurotoxic saliva, allowing the shrew to subdue prey larger than itself and store immobilized food. This makes it one of the relatively few venomous mammals, although its venom is primarily a hunting adaptation rather than a serious danger to people.

The species is a strong swimmer and can dive for around 20 seconds, using stiff hairs along its feet and tail to improve movement in water. It is usually solitary and nocturnal. The Eurasian water shrew is assessed as Least Concern, though wetland loss, pollution and introduced fish can reduce local habitat and food supplies.