Ramasamy Santhanam Books

Marine life encompasses a vast array of species, with the phylum Cnidaria being particularly notable for its high incidence of envenomations. Out of approximately 11,000 known species within this phylum, around 2% are venomous to humans. Jellyfish, especially the Australian box jellyfish, are frequently involved in dangerous encounters, leading to serious injuries and even fatalities in various countries. This book delves into the impact of these marine organisms on human health and safety.

Focusing on marine cone snails, this comprehensive volume details over 100 species known for their hazards, exploring their biological and ecological traits. It covers conotoxins, including their characteristics and the injuries they can cause, alongside treatment and prevention strategies. Additionally, the book highlights the therapeutic potential of conotoxins as nonaddictive painkillers and epilepsy treatments. Accompanied by over 275 color illustrations, it serves as a valuable resource for identification and understanding of these unique marine creatures.