CLIFTON SPRINGS Curlewis Coastcare has issued a warning about blue-ring octopuses, following multiple sightings at the Clifton Springs boat ramp and at The Dell.<\/p>\n
The group urged ocean users to keep a watch and avoid all contact with these creatures, as they are deadly.<\/p>\n
“Do not walk through seagrass or put your hands in seagrass or under rocks,” a spokesperson said.<\/p>\n
“Do not lift rocks up.<\/p>\n
“Do not attempt to touch or move the octopus.”<\/p>\n
According to Surf Life Saving Australia, blue-ringed octopuses are usually very small and grow to a maximum size of 20cm.<\/p>\n
They have eight limbs adorned with suction cups, and a beak, which is the only solid part of their anatomy.<\/p>\n
Typically, they exhibit a light brown or yellowish hue but can swiftly shift to a bright yellow with glowing blue rings or bands as a signal to deter predators when disturbed.<\/p>\n
These octopuses inhabit rock and tide pools, along with shallow coral reefs around Australia.<\/p>\n
In a Surf Life Saving Australia statement shared by the group, the organisation warns that the “octopuses rank among the most lethal marine species globally,” with the capability to deliver a “fatal amount of venom” that could “kill 26 adults” in just a few minutes.<\/p>\n
This venom, contained in their saliva, can cause paralysis and respiratory failure.<\/p>\n
If bitten, the initial response should be to dial emergency services, apply a pressure immobilisation bandage at the bite site, and keep the victim immobilised.<\/p>\n
If respiratory failure occurs, start CPR until professional help arrives.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
CLIFTON SPRINGS Curlewis Coastcare has issued a warning about blue-ring octopuses, following multiple sightings at the Clifton Springs boat ramp and at The Dell. The group urged ocean users to keep a watch and avoid all contact with these creatures, as they are deadly. “Do not walk through seagrass or put your hands in seagrass […]<\/p>\n