Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Snake venoms are complex mixtures of proteins and enzymes that are classified based on their primary physiological effects as neurotoxic, hemotoxic (vasculotoxic), or cytotoxic.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us evaluate both statements:
- Statement (I): Cobras (Naja species) and kraits (Bungarus species) belong to the family Elapidae. Their venoms are primarily neurotoxic. They contain potent pre-synaptic and post-synaptic neurotoxins (such as cobratoxin and bungarotoxin) that bind to acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction. This blocks nerve transmission, leading to progressive flaccid paralysis and death from respiratory failure. Thus, Statement (I) is true.
- Statement (II): Coagulation defects, severe hemorrhage, local tissue necrosis, and hemolysis are characteristic hallmarks of hemotoxic (vasculotoxic) venoms, which are produced primarily by snakes of the family Viperidae (such as Russell's viper and saw-scaled viper). Elapid venoms (cobra and krait) have minimal direct effects on the coagulation cascade compared to their profound neurotoxic actions. Thus, Statement (II) is false.
Therefore, Statement (I) is true but Statement (II) is false.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Statement (I) is true but Statement (II) is false, which corresponds to option (C).