We all know that diving comes with certain dangers attached – yet we enjoy it nevertheless. Understanding the risks associated with our favorite sport makes it easier to manage them, and knowing what to do in case an emergency arises builds confidence. Keeping this in mind, we’ve compiled a list of eight common sea creatures that are beautiful and fun to watch, but that are dangerous or even deadly to humans.
Box Jellyfish
Box Jellyfish are named for their cube-shaped bodies, which are clear and which can have as many as sixty long, flowing tentacles capable of growing to a length of approximately five meters apiece. Delicately beautiful, this jellyfish should be viewed from a distance, since its stings are extremely painful and can sometimes be fatal to humans.
Also known as sea wasps, box jellyfish move more rapidly than most other jellyfish species, making their way through the water at about six meters per minute. In cases where current assists them, their pace reaches higher speeds.
Most dangerous box jelly species are restricted to the Indo-Pacific region, but the animals have also been encountered in Japan, the Mediterranean, the east Pacific, the Atlantic, South Africa, and New Zealand. Warning signs are typically posted in areas where they are frequently encountered, and some beaches are even equipped with nets that keep the jellies away from swimmers.
If you encounter box jellies and are stung, vinegar can help to ease the pain. If symptoms of shock or cardiac arrest are present, get medical help immediately; if the victim is unconscious, you may need to administer CPR.
Sharks
While we now know that sharks are in much more danger from humans than we are in danger from them, it pays to keep a respectful distance from these animals. In particular, it’s important to avoid shallow water where sharks hunt, and it is vital never to chase them or make them feel the need to defend themselves. Of all shark species, those that represent the most danger to humans are Bull sharks, Tiger sharks, Great White sharks, and Hammerheads.
If you are bitten, you may get away with a few minor cuts; in most cases though, shark bite victims suffer from broken or crushed limbs, serious puncture wounds and torn flesh, or partial or complete limb amputation. Some are killed. Get out of the water immediately if you are bitten by a shark, and be sure to begin applying pressure immediately to minimize the loss of blood. In severe cases, a tourniquet may be applied. Get medical assistance right away.
Stonefish
It’s fun to try to spot stonefish in their natural habitat; they have the amazing capacity to make themselves look just like lumpy, coral-covered rocks. It’s also important to adhere to the “don’t touch” rule when in areas where stonefish might be present; their bodies are covered in sharp, venomous spikes.
If you are stung by a stonefish, you will suffer unbearable pain, and the venom can even cause paralysis. Victims of stonefish stings sometimes go into shock, and unless medical treatment is rendered immediately, permanent nerve and muscle damage can result. In some cases, stonefish stings have proved fatal.
While waiting for medical aid, assist the victim by removing any spines and washing the affected area with fresh water. Submerging the wound in hot water can help to ease the pain.
Blue-Ringed Octopus
Blue-ringed octopuses are small, but they pack a deadly sting. These lovely little creatures have a creamy-tan color and are covered in a pattern of vibrant blue rings that seem to glow and pulsate when the octopus is agitated. They are found primarily in the Indo-Pacific, from Japan to Australia, mainly occupying shallow reef areas and tidepools where their preferred prey, including small crabs and shrimp are plentiful.
Though these octopuses are relatively docile, they will attack if provoked. If you are bitten, the pain will be tolerable, however paralysis will set in rapidly in the worst cases. If you do not receive immediate medical assistance, you could be in danger of death; even if you do make it to the hospital, treatment could be tricky since there is no known antidote to blue-ringed octopus venom.
Stingrays
Stingrays can be found in many areas around the world, and these beautifully graceful creatures really are a joy to watch. Keep your distance, though, because when stingrays feel threatened, they defend themselves by delivering a powerful sting with their barbed tails. In addition, use caution when in shallow water and when swimming in the ocean; the majority of stingray injuries happen because people inadvertently step on the rays. Shuffling your feet along the bottom when entering and exiting the water can help to prevent this type of accident.
People who receive stingray injuries are likely to bleed and go into shock. In some cases, these injuries can be fatal. To treat a stingray injury, remove the barb if possible, and be sure to work to control bleeding. Get medical assistance as soon as possible.
Lionfish
Lionfish can be found in many reef environments worldwide, and while hunting them is encouraged in areas where they are considered to be an invasive species, it’s vital that you steer clear of their poisonous spines. While most lionfish stings are non-fatal, these wounds do cause serious discomfort. The venom can bring on nausea and cause vomiting – something you certainly do not want to happen while diving! If you are stung, get to the surface and immerse the affected area in hot water. Seek medical treatment.
Sea Snakes
While some sea snakes are non-venomous, others are poisonous and are capable of delivering a fatal wound. Keep your distance from these animals, as they typically attack only when they feel threatened. If you are bitten, seek medical attention. In some cases, victims may suffer heart failure and require CPR.
Sea Urchins
These spiny little creatures are not capable of attacking, so keeping your hands to yourself and avoiding any contact with reef structures where they live should be enough to prevent an injury. If you do come into contact with a sea urchin, expect to suffer from searing pain that lasts until all the spines have been removed from your wound. Be sure to seek medical treatment; in the worst cases, surgery is required to remove spines that have worked their way deep into the flesh. Ignoring the pain and hoping it will go away on its own is foolhardy; if you do so, you’ll very likely suffer from a severe infection.
Keeping a respectful distance from marine life is almost always the best way to keep yourself safe. Knowing which species are present where you dive and knowing what to expect in terms of their behavior is another way to ensure your safety – plus it will help you to enjoy your dives more. So have fun, and stay safe!