Blue-ringed octopus is a kind of sea animal found in the tropical and subtropical waters of Sri Lanka, the Philippines, Australia, and south Japan. It is recognizable by its blue-ringed coloration. The bodies of most blue-ringed octopuses measure about 11/2 to 21/2 inches (4 to 6 centimeters) in diameter. They measure up to about 4 inches (10 centimeters) with their tentacles. They have a parrotlike beak and sometimes bite people. The venom from their salivary glands then enters the wound. Several people have died from bites by these animals. The bite is often painless. A small spot of blood on the skin when the animal is removed may be the only clue that a bite has been sustained. The first effect of the venom is a rapidly developing numbness. Victims often stop breathing, requiring mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. Treatment is the same as for snakebite. No specific antidote is available.
