Cone snails are among the most venomous creatures on earth. A cone snail has a cone-shaped shell, a head, and tentacles. Spiraling ridges adorn the spire and body whorls. Usually mottled white, pale yellow or tan, though occasionally some whorls at the tip of the spire may be purple. Maximum size 1.5 inches. They live in the Indian and Pacific oceans, the Caribbean and Red seas, and along the coast of Florida. Distinguishing Characteristics: Tall, pointed spire. The venom interferes with nerve impulses, paralyzing prey in various ways. Never pick up a live cone snail, no matter the species. Where Are Venomous Cone Snails found? Cone Shells. The geographic cone is the most venomous of the 500 known cone snail species, and several human deaths have been attributed to them. A few microliters of cone snail toxin is powerful enough to kill 10 people. These toxins are now finding medical uses as pain blockers. These predatory sea snails subdue their prey with a hollow, venom-filled tooth. They are not aggressive. What Is a Cone Snail? Among the most toxic are the textile, geographic, and tulip snails and there is a higher risk of death if the geographic and textile snails are involved.All capture their prey by means of harpoon-like hollow teeth (radula) that are rapidly jabbed into their prey to inject the toxic venom. There are approximately 500 species of cone snails. Of the 500 species of poisonous cone snails, just a few are venomous enough to kill you. For many years it was one of the most sought after, and considered one of the most rare, shells in the world.
Species Overview. Notable: Among collectors, the shell of the Glory of the Seas cone snail, Conus gloriamaris, has special significance. Common Name: Jasper Cone. Just because human deaths are uncommon, it doesn’t mean you should throw away caution.
The geography cone is the deadliest, with more than 100 toxins in its small, six-inch body.