Sea snakes are a group of venomous elapid snakes that inhabit marine environments for most or all of their lives. Documentaries about them abound, but they’re actually quite elusive. You’re most likely to spot one near Australia or New Guinea in the Indian or Pacific oceans.
Sea Snake Species
The waters off Victoria, Tasmania, and South Australia host at least 32 species of sea snakes, many of which are also found in southern waters. All these species are venomous.
Though some sea snakes can move on land, most are helpless if stranded. Common types include the yellow-bellied sea snake and the banded sea krait.
Can A Sea Snake’s Venom Kill You?
Sea snakes, including Australia’s iconic inland taipan and eastern brown snake, rank first and second on the deadly land snake index and are much more venomous than land snakes.
Just 1.5 milligrams of hook-nosed sea snake venom can kill 22 people. Found off the coasts of Australia, New Zealand, and Asia, it’s known as the world’s deadliest sea snake.
