Back to libraryHighly Dangerous
marine
Blue-ringed Octopus
Hapalochlaena spp.
Venomous
Description
Small golf-ball-sized octopus that flashes iridescent blue rings when agitated. Carries tetrodotoxin.
Habitat
Tide pools, shallow reefs, hiding in shells and bottles.
Where Found in Thailand
Reported along the Andaman coast and Gulf islands.
Symptoms
- Painless bite
- Numb lips and tongue
- Difficulty swallowing
- Complete paralysis while conscious
- Respiratory arrest
First Aid — DO
- Pressure-immobilization bandage
- Start rescue breathing if breathing stops
- Do not stop CPR — victims recover with support
- Hospital immediately
DO NOT
- NEVER handle small octopuses
- DO NOT assume no pain means no envenomation
When to seek help
Call 1669 — no antivenom exists; survival depends on ventilation until toxin clears.
Call 1669