The term "Conus" refers to a genus of sea snails, commonly known as cone snails. These marine creatures are recognized for their distinctive cone-shaped shells, which can be beautifully patterned and vary in color. Cone snails are found in warm, tropical waters around the world and are often collected by shell enthusiasts for their unique appearance.
Cone snails are not just pretty; they are also fascinating predators. They use a specialized tooth, called a radula, to inject venom into their prey, which typically includes small fish and other marine animals. Some species of cone snails possess venom potent enough to be dangerous to humans, making them a subject of interest in both marine biology and medical research.