The Blue Ringed Octopus (Hapalochlaen maculosa) is a very small octopus with an arm span that is generally less than 15 cm. This octopus feeds on small fish, crabs, shrimp and shellfish and uses a strong toxin (known as Tetradotoxin) to paralyse its prey.
The Blue Ringed Octopus is one of the most poisonous species in our oceans and the bite from this little octopus can be fatal for humans. Despite their venomous nature they are not considered to be aggressive and do not pose a threat to humans unless they are greatly disturbed.
