The shell isn't dangerous, it's what's inside the shell. Cone snail venom can cause paralysis, respiratory failure and cardiovascular collapse. A sting can be fatal.

Erin Patterson, the woman accused of serving her ex-husband's family poisonous mushrooms, is photographed in Melbourne, Australia, on April 15, 2025. James Ross/AAP Image via AP ...

Viral TikTok shows woman's panic in Japan after she handled the shell of one of the world's deadliest snails. Cone snails use harpoon-like teeth to inject venom that immobilizes their victims.