Hapalochlaena maculosa Hoyle 1883

blue ringed octopus

A small octopus with pale markings when resting. The rings glow neon blue when the animal is irritated. Deadly venom !!

The blue ringed octopus eats small fish, crustaceans and shellfish. It uses a toxin to paralyse its prey. It is not usually aggressive towards humans but if provoked it will bite and inject its powerful nerve toxin which can be fatal.

This species matures quickly and is short lived. The males die after mating. The females carry the fertilised eggs around with them, under their arms for about 6 months. When the eggs hatch the female dies.