Beachcombers Field Guide - Department Of Fisheries Western ...

Beachcombers Field Guide - Department Of Fisheries Western ... Beachcombers Field Guide - Department Of Fisheries Western ...

fish.wa.gov.au
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22.03.2013 Views

Cone shell Mollusca – Gastropoda Cones live under rocks or coral boulders, and many species bury themselves in the sand with just their siphons extended like snorkels. The water sucked in through their siphon carries oxygen as well as the odour of prey, such as another mollusc, worm or a small fi sh. The cones can then rapidly harpoon their prey using a hollow, barbed tooth loaded with venom. Once the prey is paralysed it is usually swallowed whole. Photo: Sam Bridgwood Did you know? Although not all cones are dangerous to humans, it is best to treat them with caution. Mollusc and worm-eating cones can infl ict a painful sting but the venom of fi sh-eating cones can cause a human to suffer breathing diffi culties, paralysis or even death!

Photo: Sandy Clarke Baler shell

Photo: Sandy Clarke<br />

Baler shell

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