Résumé
Predatory marine gastropods of the genus Conus comprise similar to 700 species that have evolved a highly specialized envenomation apparatus. This recently evolved genus has developed potent venoms separately for prey capture and defense. Both strategies utilize a complex but different cocktail of venom peptides that is injected through a hollow harpoon to rapidly immobilize prey or deter predators. Many of the anatomical, histological, and functional aspects of the envenomation process have been elucidated. However, the role of several interconnected organs and the processes that allow the deployment of separate predatory and defensive stings require further study.