Description
Here’s some information about the blue-ringed octopus:
Appearance
Blue-ringed octopuses have a yellowish or cream-colored base with iridescent blue rings. When threatened, they quickly change color to display their blue patterns.
Size
Blue-ringed octopuses are small, measuring 12 to 20 cm (5 to 8 in) in size.
Habitat
They live in the Pacific and Indian oceans, typically on coral reefs and rocky areas of the seafloor.
Diet
They eat small crustaceans, including crabs, hermit crabs, and shrimp.
Venom
Blue-ringed octopuses are one of the world’s most venomous marine animals. Their venom contains a powerful neurotoxin called tetrodotoxin.
Behavior
Blue-ringed octopuses are relatively docile, but can be very dangerous if provoked. If a predator ignores their warning sign, the octopus will release a toxin that paralyzes the predator.
