Back to libraryHighly Dangerous
marine
Geography Cone Snail
Conus geographus
Venomous
Description
Patterned cone-shaped shell (up to 15cm) that fires a venomous harpoon. There is no antivenom.
Habitat
Shallow reefs, sand flats, under coral rubble.
Where Found in Thailand
Andaman Sea and Gulf reefs. Beautiful shell — never pick it up.
Symptoms
- Sharp sting
- Numbness spreading from the wound
- Blurred vision
- Muscle paralysis
- Respiratory failure
First Aid — DO
- Pressure-immobilization bandage
- Keep the victim still
- Be ready to give rescue breathing
- Hospital immediately
DO NOT
- NEVER pick up cone shells, even 'empty' ones
- DO NOT put shells in pockets
When to seek help
Call 1669 — life-threatening. Treatment is ventilator support until the venom wears off.
Call 1669