Close Call: Australian Teen's Life Hangs in the Balance After Collecting Venomous Seashell

An Australian teenager was bitten by a blue-ringed octopus while collecting seashells at a beach in Perth. The venomous bite went unnoticed until he showed the shell to his niece, prompting him to seek immediate medical attention. Blue-ringed octopuses carry a deadly toxin that can kill within 30 minutes, and it took doctors six hours to stabilize the teen. Experts advise beachgoers to wear reef shoes and be alert, as these creatures are skilled at camouflaging themselves.