Environmental conservation organization Oceanoholic Maldives says venomous Cone Snails have been spotted at Rasfannu Beach.

The NGO said that Cone snails are part of the Maldivian fauna and usually come to the surface at dusk. It advised the public to exercise caution when swimming in the evening and the night.

Oceanoholic advised swimmers to wear swimming shoes and especially make children wear protective gear when swimming.

It also urged the public to swim and not walk barefoot through the lagoon.

Oceanoholic said cone snails can be uncomfortable, highly venomous, and even deadly depending on the species and size.

Different species of cone snails/Photo: Google

Cone snails are marine gastropods characterized by a conical shell and beautiful color patterns. Cone snails possess a harpoon-like tooth capable of injecting a potent neurotoxin that can be dangerous to humans.

A cone snail sting can cause mild to moderate pain, and the area may develop other signs of an acute inflammatory reaction such as redness and swelling. Conus toxins affect the nervous system and are capable of causing paralysis, which may lead to respiratory failure and death.