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Other dangerous
creatures
by Yuki Ohashi, staff writer
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Before human terrorism seized global media attention, the news
was filled with stories of shark attacks in Virginia, North
Carolina, and Florida. These were making people more aware of
ocean safety, and that shouldn’t stop. However, shark attacks,
or even shark sightings are still rare compared to attack or
injury caused by other dangerous sea creatures. Before you step
into the ocean, you need a little knowledge of what’s in it.
Anyone who snorkels is familiar with sea urchins, creatures
that are covered in long black spines and that come in all sizes.
These spines are poisonous. If you step on a sea urchin, these
spines can penetrate deeply into your skin. Moreover, they break
off inside your body, and only a doctor can remove them.
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Barracuda are large carnivorous fish,
up to 7 feet and 12-15 inch thick (Sharks are the largest carnivorous
fish). They have been reported to attack people wearing shiny
things such as watches, necklaces, even dive lights. As humans
are not their prey of choice, such attacks are accidental. Don’t
wear jewelry in the ocean. And if you go night diving or night
fishing, be aware of the direction of your light; don’t shine
your light at your body, or a barracuda may be attracted and may
attack your body where the light is pointed.
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Barracuda |
Most people have heard of box jellyfish,
also called a Portugese man-of-war or sea wasp due to its deadly
sting. The shape is more like a bell than a box, and the jellyfish
has 16 tentacles covered with “stinging capsules.” These tentacles
can be a few inches to three meters long. Everyone is affected
by the venom, but for some individual, it can be fatal if not
treated by an antidote immediately.
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Box jellyfish |
Stonefish are the most venomous fish in the world
(up to 12 inches long). A stonefish is actually only dangerous
if stepped on, but since it is perfectly camouflaged to look just
like a stone, many accidents occur. Individuals who step on a
stone fish experience excruciating pain. Antivenom is available,
but as on-site emergency treatment, remove the spine right away
and encouraging bleeding, since it flushes some of venom for the
wound.
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| Two other deadly fish are the lionfish,
easy to recognize for its colorful "mane" of poisonous spines.
Also about 12 inches long, it is one of the 330 species of scorpionfish.
Many of the others look exactly like stones or rocks, and all
should be treated the same way as the stonefish. |
Lionfish |
Moray eels are evil looking,
and their razor sharp teeth can cause serious injury and infection.
They normally live by the reefs. Nevertheless, Moray Eels are
not usually aggressive, unless their territory is invaded. Experienced
divers can actually feed them, but this is not recommended.
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Morey eel |
| Being in the ocean is a great experience
of a totally new world where few people have ever been. However,
with a little knowledge, you can be prepared to face any unexpected
situation. |
Pufferfish |
Sea anemone
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