The blue-ringed octopus that lives in the coral reefs of the Indian and Pacific Oceans has 50 times more venom than a cobra.
- 7 small but deadly creatures
The blue-ringed octopus, also known as the “blue-ringed rock octopus” , is a marine species commonly distributed in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. It is known for its distinctive blue ring spots and flexible body.
In fact, the blue-ringed octopus’s toxin is a strong acidic substance called “blue-ringed cholinesterase inhibitor”. This toxin is found in its skin and saliva and is secreted by the blue-ringed octopus to protect itself when it feels threatened. This toxin has a serious effect on the human nervous system and can cause paralysis, difficulty breathing and even death.
Although the blue-ringed octopus is highly venomous, it is only dangerous to humans when caught or eaten. In the natural environment, the blue-ringed octopus uses bright blue circular markings on its body to warn potential predators. Although the blue-ringed octopus’s venom can sometimes affect other marine life, in the right environments it does not pose a direct threat to humans.
They are called Hapalochlaena , and their bodies contain a neurotoxin 1,200 times more toxic than cyanide.
This poison causes paralysis and stops breathing within minutes, quickly leading to cardiac arrest.
This type of octopus looks very beautiful with blue spots on its body. So many tourists are not wary.
The body of an adult is about the size of a ping pong ball. The tentacles are about 7-10cm long.
The toxins in octopus are maculotoxin and tetrodotoxin , which can exist at high temperatures when cooked or after death.
To date, there is no serum to treat the venom of this type of octopus.
Symptoms of poisoning are dizziness, lightheadedness, headache, and body paralysis.
Blue-ringed octopus: battle on the dinner table
Octopus is a delicious seafood that is popular in many places. Among the many species of octopus, the blue-ringed octopus has attracted even more attention. However, while we indulge in enjoying delicious food, we also face food safety issues related to blue-ringed octopus.
Especially in Japanese cuisine, blue-ringed octopus is an indispensable ingredient and is praised as a treasure in the culinary world. Its delicious taste is worthy of everyone to pursue and enjoy.
Blue-ringed octopuses are rich in a neurotoxin called Tetrodotoxin. This toxin is highly toxic to the human central nervous system and can cause respiratory muscle paralysis and even death. When eating blue-ringed octopus, if handled improperly or if one eats an individual with high levels of toxins, poisoning can occur.
Octopus is a delicious seafood that is popular in many places.
To solve this problem, governments and relevant agencies of many countries have applied strict management measures. Blue-ringed octopus sold in restaurants and markets in Japan must be prepared by professionally trained chefs to ensure food safety. European Union countries have also issued strict regulations and inspection standards for blue-ringed octopus and banned wild capture. These measures can ensure the safety of blue-ringed octopuses and humans to a certain extent.
But despite these management measures, accidents still happen. In pursuit of fresh and unique flavor, some people often try to cook blue-ringed octopus at home without enough professional knowledge and skills. This has also led to several cases of poisoning.
As a delicious seafood ingredient, blue-ringed octopus certainly has an irresistible appeal. However, food safety issues related to blue-ringed octopus also need our attention. Only with strict management measures can we safely enjoy this delicious dish while minimizing food safety risks.
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