How to avoid toxic or poisonous (non edible) fish
How to tell if a fish is toxic or poisonous There are no simple rules to tell edible fish from those with poisonous flesh and it's a simple fact - toxic fish contain various types of poisonous substances or toxins in their flesh and are dangerous to eat. In general however, they…
Terebra Shells
Terebra shells Terebridae species These shells are found in both temperate and tropical waters. They are similar to cone shells but much thinner and longer. They poison in the same way as cone shells, but their venom is not as poisonous.
Cone Shells
Cone shells Conidae species These cone-shaped shells have smooth, colorful mottling and long, narrow openings in the base of the shell. They live under rocks, in crevices and coral reefs, and along rocky shores and protected bays in tropical areas. All have tiny teeth that are similar to hypodermic needles.…
Portuguese Man-of-War
Portuguese man-of-war Physalis species Although it resembles a jellyfish, the Portuguese man-of-war is actually a colony of sea animals. Mainly found in tropical regions; however, the Gulf stream current can carry it as far as Europe. It is also found as far south as Australia. The floating portion of the…
Blue-ringed Octopus
Blue-ringed octopus Hapalochlaena species This small octopus is usually found on the Great Barrier Reef off eastern Australia. It is grayish-white with iridescent blue ringlike markings. This octopus usually will not bite unless stepped on or handled. Its bite is extremely poisonous and frequently lethal.
Weever Fish
Weever fish Trachinidae species The weever fish is a tropical fish that is fairly slim and about 30 centimeters (12 inches) long. All its fins have venomous spines that cause a painful wound.
Toadfish
Toadfish Batrachoididae species Toadfish are found in the tropical waters off the coasts of South and Central America. They are between and 25 centimeters (7 to 10 inches) long and have a dull color and large mouths. They bury themselves in the sand and may be easily stepped on. They…
Rabbitfish
Rabbitfish Siganidae species Rabbitfish are found predominantly on the reefs in the Pacific and Indian oceans. They average about 30 centimeters (12 inches) long and have very sharp spines in their fins. The spines are venomous and can inflict intense pain.
Stingray
Stingray Dasyatidae species Stingrays inhabit shallow water, especially in the tropics, but in temperate regions as well. All have a distinctive ray shape, but coloration may make them hard to spot unless they are swimming (Stingrays settle into the sand). Shuffling your feet, rather than stepping, to avoid stepping on…
Banded Sea Snake – how to identify, avoid their habitat, and treatment for their bite.
Banded sea snake Laticauda colubrina Description: Smooth-scaled snake that is a pale shade of blue with black bands. Its oarlike tail provides propulsion in swimming. Characteristics: Most active at night, swimming close to shore and at times entering tide pools. Its venom is a very strong neurotoxin. Its victims are…
Dangerous animals – complete guide to deadly creatures in the wilderness
Introduction The threat from animals is less than from other parts of the environment. However, common sense tells you to avoid encounters with lions, bears, and other large or dangerous animals. You should also avoid large grazing animals with horns, hooves, and great weight. Move carefully through their environment. Caution…
