Hobbies And Interests
Blue-Ringed Octopus
Any diver or underwater explorer should be very wary when coming face-to-face with the glowing blue circles plastering the skin of a yellow-tinged octopus. The blue-ringed octopus lurks among the corals and rocks in the shallow, tropical waters surrounding Australia and India. Arguably one of the most intelligent in the animal kingdom, the octopus showcases an uncanny ability to learn by trial-and-error and mimicking others. A relatively shy creature, the octopus hides from strangers and normally will not attack humans, but will not hesitate to bite if it perceives a threat. The toxin, produced by bacteria inhabiting the octopus' salivary glands, acts on the nerves and paralyzes the breathing muscles. No antivenom exists to counteract the effects of this octopus' toxin; however, if the patient survives beyond 24 hours, she will recover completely.
Box Jellyfish
The box jellyfish, or sea wasp, also lives in the shallow waters of Australia. Its body, the bell, resembles a box averaging between 16 and 24 cm in diameter. Each organism may contain up to 60 tentacles arranged in four groups suspended from each corner. The box jellyfish spends part of its life in fresh water, where it migrates to reproduce. Unlike other jellyfish, box jellyfish may rest at ocean bottoms for periods of time and can move independently of water currents. Stinging cells called nematocysts on the jellyfish's tentacles release their venom upon contact with living tissues. The powerful toxin causes excruciating pain and stops the heart. If death does not occur, victims may continue experiencing symptoms up to two weeks later.
Cone Shells
Cone shells, also called cone snails, live in the shallow waters of tropical regions. The shell tapers to a point at one end while the larger end provides the opening for the snail's body. A tongue-like protrusion darts out of the cavity to inject poison -- conotoxin -- into unsuspecting prey and perceived enemies. A victim stung with conotoxin must wait for the effects to subside because no antivenom exists. Recent research suggests that cone snail toxin has valuable pain-relieving effects and may prove effective in treating diseases such as epilepsy.
Lionfish
The lionfish, or scorpionfish, occupies the reef habitats of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. The fish exhibits stunning red stripes and displays a number of spikes protruding from its fins and back. The red lionfish snaps up prey such as shrimp with lightning speed; biologists have also noted a tendency for cannibalism in these fish. This animal does not back down from a confrontation. Red lionfish venom causes intense pain and affects the functions of the heart and lungs. Application of heat may decrease the effectiveness of the poison.
Stonefish
Unsuspecting divers and explorers may find themselves in a world of pain if they accidentally step on the camouflaged reef stonefish. The stonefish, reaching an average length of 35 cm, resembles a piece of coral or a crusty piece of rock. It generally lies at the bottom of the coral reef, burrowing under rocks or covered with a layer of sand. The animal lies in wait for prey to pass by before gobbling them up at fast speed. Considered the most venomous fish in the world, the reef stonefish possesses 13 spines lining its back, capable of delivering lethal doses of venom to living tissues they puncture.
Sea Snake
Sea snakes propel themselves through water with their flattened tails. You can find sea snakes in warmer parts of the Pacific Ocean, from the shallow coastal waters to the deep interior regions. Some species use camouflage to blend in with the watery environment while others choose to warn enemies away with bold coloring. Sea snakes are the only reptiles that reproduce entirely in the water. Some sharks, crocodilians and large fish find sea snakes tasty; however, one species -- the yellow-bellied sea snake -- has no known predators. These marine reptiles reserve their extremely potent venom to immobilize fish and invertebrates for consumption.