The Deadliest Sea Snake in Australia: Belcher’s Sea Snake

The Belcher's Sea Snake, scientifically known as Pseudonaja nuchalis, is considered the most venomous sea snake in Australia and possibly the world. This snake is primarily found in the Indian Ocean, the Solomon Islands, Gulf of Thailand, and the Northwest coast of Australia. Despite its highly toxic venom, the Belcher's Sea Snake is shy and only releases venom in a quarter of its bites, making it less dangerous to humans than one might assume.

Discovering the Venom

Experts have believed for a long time that a single drop of the Belcher's Sea Snake venom could potentially kill more than 1800 people in as little as 30 minutes. However, very little research has been conducted on its venom toxicity in relation to humans. Despite the lack of comprehensive studies, the scientific community's collective hypothesis remains that this species's venom is exceptionally potent.

Behavior and Habitat

The Belcher's Sea Snake is one of about seventy species of sea snakes found in the world's water, with around half of these residing off the coast of Australia. All sea snakes possess some degree of venom, a factor that necessitates a wide berth from them. Divers and fishermen are rare victims of these snakes, usually when they mistakenly get tangled in a fishing net containing sea snakes.

Understanding Venom Toxicity

Until recent years, it was difficult to determine which species of elapids, or remnants of land snakes, were the most venomous. Current research suggests that the Belcher’s Sea Snake is the most venomous, as not much venom is required to cause death in humans.

Evolution and Adaptation

Given the presence of venomous land snakes in Australia, it is reasonable to assume that the waters around the continent should have a variety of venomous sea snake species. The evolution of sea snakes from land snakes explains the overall toxicity found in many species.

Further Information

For more detailed information on the Belcher’s Sea Snake, including its behavioral patterns, venom toxicity, bite symptoms, and treatment methods, refer to [a detailed source URL].