Unpacking the Cone Snail

Описание: The "deadly secret" of the cone snail (genus Conus) is its conotoxin venom, a cocktail of hundreds of unique neuroactive peptides delivered via a high-speed, harpoon-like tooth. These marine gastropods are among the most venomous creatures on Earth, with some species possessing enough toxin to kill multiple adult humans.
The Most Dangerous Species
While there are over 800–1,000 species of cone snails, their danger to humans varies by their diet (worms, other snails, or fish).
The Geography Cone (Conus geographus): Known as the "cigarette snail" (implying you have only enough time for one last cigarette before death), it is the most lethal species. It is responsible for nearly all of the approximately 36-40 recorded human fatalities.
The Textile Cone (Conus textile): Highly venomous and often cited for its beautiful pattern, it has also caused serious human injuries.
How the Poison Works
The venom is a complex "chemical arsenal" designed to cause instant paralysis.
Conotoxins: These small proteins target specific ion channels (sodium, potassium, and calcium) and receptors in the nervous system.
The "Nirvana Cabal": Some species, like the Geography Cone, release a cloud of insulin into the water. This causes hypoglycemic shock in nearby fish, rendering them sluggish and unable to escape before the snail strikes.
Painless Sting: Many cone snail venoms contain an analgesic (painkiller), meaning a human might not even feel the initial sting while the toxin begins to paralyze their body.
Symptoms and Medical Emergency
There is no antivenom for a cone snail sting.
Progression: Symptoms typically begin with localized numbness or tingling, followed by dizziness, slurred speech, and blurred vision.
Fatality: Death usually occurs within 1 to 5 hours due to respiratory failure as the diaphragm muscles become paralyzed.
Treatment (2026 Guidelines): Immediate medical intervention is critical. Treatment focuses on supportive care, such as mechanical ventilation, to keep the patient breathing until the toxins naturally wear off.
Medical Breakthroughs from the Poison
Despite its lethality, conotoxins are a goldmine for modern medicine due to their precision.
Ziconotide (Prialt): A non-addictive painkiller derived from the Magician Cone snail (Conus magus) is 1,000 times more powerful than morphine and is used for chronic intractable pain.
Future Research: Scientists are investigating conotoxins to treat epilepsy, Alzheimer's, Parkinson’s disease, and even certain types of cancer.