Cone shell harpoon, SEM

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Cone shell harpoon, SEM

Cone shell harpoon. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the venomous harpoon of a cone shell (Conus sp.), a type of marine snail. The cone shell is a predator that fires this harpoon into its prey, usually a fish or a worm. The venom paralyses the victim, allowing the snail to devour it. The venom is highly toxic, and several human deaths have been recorded. The venom contains proteins called conotoxins, which contain the amino acid Gla (gamma-carboxyglutamic acid). This is involved in the blood clotting process in humans. Study of the snails biochemistry could lead to new drugs to treat clotting disorders such as haemophilia. Magnification unknown

Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations

Media ID 6466723

© VOLKER STEGER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Barb Clots Deadly Fatal Harpoon Lethal Marine Biology Laboratory Mollusca Piercing Poison Poisonous Predatory Sharp Snail Spike Toxic Toxin Us A Venom Venomous Weapon Woods Hole Cone Shell

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate and deadly beauty of a cone shell harpoon, captured through a coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM). The cone shell, a venomous marine snail belonging to the Conus species, employs this harpoon as its primary weapon in hunting. Typically targeting fish or worms, the snail fires its venomous projectile into its prey, paralyzing it and allowing for easy consumption. The venom contained within this harpoon is exceptionally toxic and has tragically caused several human deaths. Within the venom are conotoxins, proteins that possess gamma-carboxyglutamic acid (Gla), an amino acid involved in blood clotting processes in humans. This intriguing biochemistry has sparked interest among researchers who believe studying these snails could potentially lead to breakthroughs in developing new drugs for treating clotting disorders like haemophilia. While the magnification level remains unknown for this image, it offers us a glimpse into the microscopic world of nature's most lethal predators. With its vibrant colors and sharp spikes, this SEM photograph highlights both the dangerous nature of these creatures and their vital role within marine ecosystems. Taken by Science Photo Library at Woods Hole's Marine Biology Laboratory in Massachusetts, United States, this image serves as a reminder of how even seemingly small organisms can hold immense power and potential for scientific discovery.

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