CONE SNAIL

Conus

Cone Snails are a genus of large, highly venomous marine Gastropods. They are named for their swirled, cone shaped shells, which cover the entire body. Their shells are popular among shell collectors. Cone snails typically measure around 2-5 In (6-15 Cm) long. Most species of cone snail are a speckled brown-red color.

They are known for their ability to shoot harpoons filled with Conotoxin based venom. They use this as a defense from predators and as a hunting weapon. When the snail spots prey, it extends its proboscis and aims at its target. It then fires a venom-filled harpoon at its prey and paralyzes it. It then retracts the harpoon and swallows its prey whole. The cone snail also has darts which are possibly used for self defence. The potency of the venom varies in different species. Some are only as light as a bee sting, while others can kill a grown man. There are currently no procedures for treating cone snail stings. The most doctors can do is keep the patient alive and wait for the venom to deteriorate. Scientists have proposed to engineer cone snail venom to create a painkilling drug. They say that this drug could be over 1,000-10,000 times more potent than morphine and non-addictive.

They are among the most popular shells to collect. They have also been used in jewelry making as they do not need any modification to be strung. However, this can be dangerous. In the event that a live snail is picked up, the snail may start launching harpoons to defend itself.