Blue-ringed Octopus

Hapalochlaena

Least Concern

Location

Pacific Ocean (Australia to Japan)

Size

12-20 cm (5-8 inches) including tentacles

Diet

Carnivore

Habitat

Shallow tide pools and coral reefs

About This Animal

Despite being only the size of a golf ball, the blue-ringed octopus carries enough venom to kill 26 adult humans within minutes. When threatened, brilliant blue rings appear across its body as a warning. There is no antidote to its bite.

Amazing Facts

Carries enough venom to kill 26 adult humans

Only weighs 10-100 grams but is one of the world's most venomous animals

Blue rings only appear when threatened or excited

Venom causes total paralysis within minutes

No known antidote exists for its bite