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The venom of the blue-ringed octopus is extremely potent and is the same as, or similar to, the poison found in the flesh of certain fish. The venom is used in nature to kill prey items, which consist mainly of crabs. The usual colour of this animal is a mottled brown, but when disturbed, bright blue rings appear on its skin, warning of the danger of a bite.

Blue-ringed octopus

 

 

 

 

 

Last updated: July 2005