Deadly beauty named Blue-Ringed Octopus: Why this tiny Cephalopod requires utmost respect | VIDEO

The blue-ringed octopus is a striking example of "deadly beauty" in the marine world, demanding immense respect from beachgoers, divers, and marine enthusiasts. This octopus, with its blue rings on its body, is beautiful to look at, but it is a beast capable of killing. The venom of the blue-ringed octopus affects the human respiratory system and can cause death or paralysis within minutes, and there is no known antivenom.

As the name suggests, these octopuses are characterised by their bright blue rings on their bodies and are found in the Pacific and Indian Oceans. However, these rings are a warning sign that appears brighter when threatened. The blue-ringed octopus is one of the most venomous species of octopus.

These creatures carry enough venom to kill 26 humans in minutes. Death can result if not treated immediately. Since the pain is very low, it is possible to go unnoticed when they bite. Often, the danger is recognised only when symptoms such as difficulty breathing appear. There is no antidote for their venom. At least 11 people have died from blue-ringed octopus stings in the world.

Special precautions are taken against blue-ringed octopus in countries where octopus dishes are popular, such as China. There have been reports of blue-ringed octopuses being mistakenly sold in markets along with regular octopuses.

Since the venom of the blue-ringed octopus is highly heat-resistant, cooking, boiling, or heating the octopus does not deactivate the toxin. Often comparable to a golf ball, they are tiny, generally measuring only 10 - 20 cm in size. Blue-ringed octopuses are not aggressive and generally shy away from humans, preferring to hide in cracks, crevices, or empty shells. They are considered "non-aggressive" and only bite when handled, stepped on, or provoked.