Blue-ringed octopus (genus: Hapalochlaena)
image from biologypop.com
A highly venomous cephalopod that can be found throughout the world, but are mostly found in the reefs of Australia.
Blue-ringed octopuses feed on crustaceans such as shrimp, crab, and small injured fish. They only grow to the size of 5 to 8 inches. They are infamous for being the most venomous marine animal in the world!
Their saliva contains tetrodotoxin, a neurotoxin strong enough to kill humans. Tetrodotoxin is 1,200 times more toxic than cyanide. Depending on how much venom has been transferred into the wound, the symptoms can be very rapid. Not all bites result in the transfer of venom. Within five to ten minutes, the victim begins to experience numbness, progressive muscular weakness, difficulty breathing, and swallowing. The severity of symptoms is dose-dependent, smaller adults and children are most at risk.
These gorgeous creatures are known for their yellow coloration with a neon blue ring patterns. When disturbed, the octopus will make the blue ring pattern flash a brighter blue color as a warning. The animal does this by contracting and expanding
thousands of color-changing cells called chromatophores. They are just below the surface of the skin and are responsible for these remarkable transformations. Although they are stunningly beautiful, these creatures are rarely seen in the aquarium hobby. The blue ringed octopus is a definitely an interesting animal to admire and research.
