Main Page or centuries members of the Conidae family have been collected for their unique and intricately designed shells. Only during the last few decades have Cone shells become an exciting area for scientific research.
Cone shells are marine snails and are found in reef environments throughout the world.
They prey upon other marine organisms, immobilising them with unique venoms. There have been 30 recorded cases of human envenomation by fish-eating cone shells, in some cases fatal. Upon investigation it was found that the toxins in cone shell venoms possess pharmacological qualities that make them valuable tools in medical research. Members of the Conidae family do not predate upon humans but will sting if disturbed. It is best to avoid contact with the cone shells completely, and collection of live specimens requires a permit.