| Clostridium botulinum was one of the many species of bacteria investigated for their potential use as secret, hard-hitting weapons of war. It can be cultured in large amounts and produces the most poisonous substance known to mankind. The toxin, botulin, is a waste product produced by the bacteria's normal metabolism. Exact estimates of the lethality of the toxin vary, but a pound or two of the toxin would be able to wipe out an enemy entirely. |