The scientific community has no evidence of the existence of real fire-breathing creatures, such as mythical dragons. However, there are animals and plants that produce flammable substances as part of their life processes.
One of such amazing creations of nature is the ash-tree plant (popularly known as the burning bush).
Dictamnus has the unique property of releasing volatile oils during the ripening of its fruits. These oils, easily ignited even by sunlight, create a spectacular bluish flame around the bush. Interestingly, this flame does not harm the plant itself.
Another fire-breathing creature is the amazing bombardier beetle. When the beetle senses danger, it sprays a liquid containing hydrogen peroxide, peroxidase, and hydroquinone from its abdomen. When these components combine, a violent chemical reaction occurs, injecting the enemy with a caustic substance, reaching temperatures of up to 100°C! This defense mechanism helps the beetle repel and even kill potential predators.
Fire, as we know, requires three basic elements: fuel, an oxidizer, and a heat source. Living organisms, despite their diversity and adaptability, do not possess the necessary physical and chemical properties to directly produce and sustain fire. However, both of these examples demonstrate the uniqueness and diversity of living nature, as well as the incredible abilities of organisms to survive and defend themselves.
