Toxoglossa

Toxoglossa is a superorder of predatory sea snails and slugs. These marine gastropod molluscs are characterized by their specialized radula, a ribbon-like structure used for feeding. In toxoglossans, the radula teeth are typically hollow and modified into venomous darts or harpoons, which are used to immobilize prey. The venom is injected into the prey through a proboscis. This group includes some of the most venomous marine animals known.

The diet of toxoglossans varies greatly depending on the species. Some feed on polychaete worms, others on molluscs such as clams and other snails, and some even prey on fish. Their hunting strategies are diverse, often involving the use of their venom to subdue prey before consumption. The venom composition is complex and can include neurotoxins, cardiotoxins, and enzymes, which contribute to rapid incapacitation of their prey.

Toxoglossa is a very diverse group, with thousands of described species found in all the world's oceans, from shallow tropical reefs to deep-sea environments. Prominent families within this superorder include Conidae (cone snails), Terebridae (augur snails), and Turridae (turrids). While many toxoglossans are sessile or slow-moving, their predatory adaptations allow them to exploit a wide range of food sources effectively. The study of toxoglossan venom has also led to significant advancements in pharmacology, with some components being explored for potential medicinal applications.