The Amazon rainforest spans nine South American countries and is home to an estimated 10% of the world’s known biodiversity. While many visitors associate it with jaguars and anacondas, some of the forest’s most dangerous creatures are far smaller—and often more difficult to spot. These animals rely on venom, powerful jaws, camouflage, or sheer strength to hunt prey or defend themselves. Here are seven of the Amazon’s most dangerous animals and why they command respect. Although attacks on humans are uncommon, jaguars may become dangerous if cornered, injured, or provoked.