How is the venom potency of the Irukandji jellyfish reportedly compared to the venom of a cobra?
Answer
Its venom is reputedly over 100 times more powerful than a cobra's venom.
The Irukandji jellyfish is highlighted as possessing extremely potent venom, despite potentially causing only mild initial sting sensations. The severity of its toxins is emphasized by a comparison to a terrestrial reference point: the venom delivered is reputedly over 100 times more powerful than that produced by a cobra. This extreme potency is responsible for the delayed, agonizing symptoms characteristic of Irukandji syndrome, which can manifest hours after the initial contact, underscoring why rapid assessment in waters where these species reside is crucial, even if the immediate pain is minimal.
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