1.  There are at least 10 different species of blue-ringed octopus or “BRO” and they can be found in tidal pools and reefs in the Indo-Pacific Ocean.

2. The blue-ringed octopus is one of the most venomous animals in the world. That’s why they are very dangerous.

3. The common name comes from the 50 to 60 bright blue rings on their skin. If they feel threatened, or if they are about to attack, the rings will light up even more.

4. If this kind of octopus feels relaxed, they are dark brown to yellow, covered with blue patches or rings. If it gets excited or angry, their body becomes darker and the blue circles will glow.

5. The average length is approximately 8 inches or golf ball size.

6. The dangerous blue-ringed octopus has a life expectancy of 2 years and lays 50 to 100 eggs when they mate.

7. During night time, they will search for food, such as crabs, clams, shrimps, small fishes, etc. But, they also have to watch out for their predators – mainly eels.

8. The BRO produces two types of venom; one for protection and one for hunting. The one for protection is produced by bacteria that lives in its salivary glands.

9. The venom tetrodotoxin (TTX), is the same extremely deadly toxin pufferfishes have. Experiments showed that one single adult BRO has enough venom to fatally paralyze 26 adult humans at the same time.

10. There is no antivenom available yet. Treatment consists of life-supportive measures including artificial ventilation.

11. They are normally shy in nature. If stepped on or angered, it will bite. BRO bites are usually reported as painless.

12. If a BRO loses a tentacle, it will automatically grow back!