Blue-Ringed Octopus

The Greater Blue-Ringed Octopus (Hapalochlaena lunulata) is a very special creature. It is one of three species of Blue-Ringed Octopus, and the only one to be found outside of Australia. Its distribution covers the Indo-West-Pacific region from Sri Lanka to The Solomon Islands and Vanuatu.

All species of Blue-Ringed Octopus are incredibly venomous, including potentially fatal to humans. Luckily, there have been no reported human fatalities for more than 50 years. This is mainly because the octopus is clever, shy and would only bite with its beak as a last resort when cornered. There is no antivenom for the Blue-Ringed Octopus bites, but first response must focus on CPR / ventilation to ensure that the victim can receive & process oxygen. It's also vital to make sure that if outside and facing upwards, the victim's eyes are protected from over-exposure, as they are often paralysed open throughout recovery.